Ultrasonographically guided wire localization of nonpalpable breast lesions

The results of 102 preoperative ultrasonographically guided wire localizations of nonpalpable breast lesions were reviewed. Ultrasonography was used because of nonvisualization during mammography (16 cases), a difficult location of the lesion (3 cases), vasovagal syncope during mammographic guidance (two cases), or the radiologist's preference (81 cases). All localizations were successful. Removal was confirmed by specimen mammography or ultrasonography or both in 85 cases and by macroscopic examination in 10 cases. In seven cases specimen radiography was not performed. One syncope and one wire insertion into the pectoralis fascia occurred. Ultrasonographically guided wire localization is accurate and well tolerated in aiding surgical biopsy of breast lesions.