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Wire fragments after needle localization
J S Montrey1, J A Levy, R J Brenner
1Department of Surgery, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield 62794, USA.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Retained breast biopsy wires are usually stable and asymptomatic. Follow-up mammography at 3 and 6 months is recommended for asymptomatic patients, with excision for symptomatic cases.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Breast Imaging
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Needle localization is crucial for non-palpable breast lesions.
- Retained guidewire fragments after breast biopsy are uncommon.
- Limited data exists on the long-term natural history of these fragments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the natural history of retained wire fragments after breast biopsy.
- To evaluate the clinical and imaging outcomes of patients with retained fragments.
- To establish management guidelines for asymptomatic and symptomatic retained fragments.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 10 patients with retained wire fragments.
- Fragments present for 1.5-11 years post-biopsy.
- Clinical data and imaging follow-up were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Only one patient (10%) experienced symptoms attributed to the retained wire.
- The position of the wire fragments remained stable in all patients over time.
- No significant complications were observed in asymptomatic patients.
Conclusions:
- Retained wire fragments after needle localization are generally benign and stable.
- Asymptomatic patients require early mammographic surveillance (3 and 6 months).
- Symptomatic patients should undergo fragment excision.