Localisation and Excision Biopsy

This procedure is usually performed for lesions that are not felt (palpable). It is performed in the same fashion as excisional biopsy, the main difference being that prior to surgery, a fine wire is placed in the breast with the tip of the wire at the lesion and the length of the wire extending through the skin so that at surgery the lesion can be identified and removed. Usually a small incision is placed in the skin close to the tip of the wire and excision biopsy of the lesion including the wire is performed in a similar fashion to a routine excisional biopsy. Dissolvable sutures are used and taping of the wound for six weeks post-operatively either with an adhesive tape or silicone dressing is advised. Although good cosmesis is usually obtained, occasionally some minor contour change in the breast or nipple may result from large excisions.