[Microductectomy. A simple method for excision of intraductal changes in the breast]

Next to tumour and pain, discharge from the nipples is the most common reason for remitting women to a breast clinic, and comprises 3-6% of the total cause of remittance. We describe a technique for localizing a duct system, where a defect is found by galactography by injection of methylenblue/Isopaque Amin 1:1 in the duct system prior to operation. Ultrasonography can be used to localize the ectatic ducts in cases where there is no secretion on the day of the scheduled operation. The blue colour enables the surgeon to excise the defect duct very precisely. Such a microductectomy preserves breast tissue and gives a better cosmetic result than with complete central ductectomy. We discuss examination and treatment of women with discharge from the nipple.