Accuracy of marker clip placement after mammotome breast biopsy.
OBJECTIVE
To assess, after stereotaxic, vacuum-assisted breast biopsy, the accuracy of marker clip deployment for guiding subsequent needle localization procedures and surgery.


METHODS
We conducted a retrospective review of 100 vacuum-assisted core breast biopsies that were followed by marker clip deployment. Craniocaudal (CC) and mediolateral oblique (MLO) mammograms were used to locate clips relative to the centre of the target lesion in 5-mm increments.


RESULTS
In the 94 of 100 cases adequate for review, maximum marker clip displacement of less than 10 mm on either the CC or MLO views was observed in 68 (72%) cases. In 9 (10%) cases, the localization clip was positioned more that 24 mm from the target lesion.


CONCLUSIONS
Post-biopsy CC and MLO radiographs are recommended to identify those cases in which there is a significant difference between the location of the marker clip and the biopsied lesion.
Kruger
Brian M
BM
Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9. bkruger@crha-health.ab.ca
Burrowes
Paul
P
MacGregor
John Henry
JH
D001706:Biopsy / Q000379:methods*; D001940:Breast / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008327:Mammography; D013238:Stereotaxic Techniques; D013525:Surgical Instruments