Non-Invasive 3D Breast Tumor Localization: A Viable Alternative to Invasive Tumor Marking

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NAST) can lead to complete tumor regression in breast cancer.
• Standard invasive tumor marking before NAST can be challenging after tumor regression.
• A novel non-invasive 3D tumor localization technique is proposed as an alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate a novel non-invasive 3D breast tumor localization technique.
• To assess the feasibility and accuracy of this technique for guiding surgery after NAST.
• To provide an alternative to invasive marking for complete tumor bed excision.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, single-arm study evaluating a non-invasive 3D tumor localization technique.
• Feasibility and precision assessed via histological analysis of excised tissue.
• Patient selection based on tumor ultrasound visibility and response to NAST.

Main Results:

• The technique was applied to 31/79 patients (39%) with complete clinical regression after NAST.
• Histological analysis confirmed 100% precision in locating tumor beds.
• No positive margins were observed in cases with microscopic cancer residues (7/31).

Conclusions:

• The non-invasive 3D localization technique is feasible and accurate for guiding surgery post-NAST.
• It offers a viable alternative to invasive marking, particularly in centers with limited resources.
• Inadequate tumor ultrasound visibility remains a limitation.