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Retained Localization Wire Fragments in the Breast: Long-term Follow-up
Sarah Martaindale1, Marion Scoggins1, Roland L Bassett2
1Department of Breast Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX.
Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology
|May 19, 2021
Summary
Retained breast localization wire fragments are typically stable and rarely migrate. Most fragments can be safely monitored with mammography, avoiding unnecessary surgical removal.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Surgical Oncology
- Breast Imaging
Background:
- Wire localization is a common breast lesion preoperative localization technique.
- Retained wire fragments can occur post-surgery, with limited data on their long-term behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the stability of retained wire localization fragments.
- To determine the frequency of complications and required interventions.
- To assess management options for retained fragments.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of patients with retained wire fragments (1990-2019).
- Analysis of mammograms, localization images, specimen radiographs, and clinical notes.
- Data collection on fragment stability, migration, complications, and management.
Main Results:
- 18 patients with 19 retained wire fragments identified.
- All 12 fragments with available mammograms were stable for an average of 96.9 months.
- Eight fragments were surgically excised, none due to migration.
Conclusions:
- Retained localization wire fragments exhibit low risk of clinically significant migration.
- Mammographic surveillance is a safe management strategy.
- Immediate surgical excision or percutaneous removal is often unnecessary.
