Are We Off the Hook? An Update in Breast Localisation Trends

Hookwire localisation (HWL) is the most established method of localising impalpable breast lesions. Previous cross-sectional study of Australian and New Zealand surgeons in 2016 found HWL to be the most widely used breast lesion localisation technique (LLT). Many non-wire techniques have subsequently been developed to address the limitations of HWL. The aim of this study is to assess current trends in the use of breast LLTs in Australia and New Zealand and to compare results with previous findings of a prior study.

Attendees of a national Breast Conference were invited to participate in an online survey between 25 March and 21 April 2023.

100 complete responses were received. The number of respondents using each LLT was: HWL 95, Magseed 30, Carbon-track 26, SCOUT 19, IOUS 13, ROLLIS 9, ROLL 4, MOLLI 2. Considering the LLTs they used the most, 73 respondents stated HWL, 14 Magseed, 6 carbon-track and 4 ROLLIS. Magseed and ROLLIS were more likely to be the most used LLT of respondents in public practice, and HWL was more likely to be the most used LLT in private practice (p = 0.010). Since 2016, the use of radioguided techniques has increased (4%-13%, p = 0.036).

HWL remains the most used LLT; however, non-wire LLTs are being used more frequently. Although non-wire LLTs have many advantages, familiarity and cost likely also influence the choice of technique.