The standard treatment for nonpalpable breast tumours is to surgically remove them. But because these tumours are so small, it is necessary to pinpoint their location before surgery by implanting a marker inside the tumour using mammogram or ultrasound guidance. This procedure is called localization.
The current localization techniques used in Ontario are wire-guided localization and radioactive seed localization, both of which have some limitations. Wire-free, nonradioactive localization is a new type of localization that overcomes these limitations. Two types are now being used at some hospitals in Ontario: magnetic seed localization and reflector-guided localization.
This health technology assessment looked at how safe and effective wire-free, nonradioactive localization techniques to guide surgical removal of nonpalpable breast tumours are. It also looked at the budget impact of publicly funding wire-free, nonradioactive localization techniques and at the experiences, preferences, and values of people who have undergone a localization procedure for the excision of a nonpalpable breast tumour.
Read the full health technology assessment report for more information.
Wire-Free, Nonradioactive Localization Techniques to Guide Surgical Excision of Nonpalpable Breast Tumours: A Health Technology Assessment
May 2023
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