Breast Needle Localization
What is Breast Needle Localization?
The purpose of this procedure is to help identify the precise location of abnormal breast tissue for biopsy. This is done by placing dye and sometimes a small wire at the point of the abnormality.
What Can I Expect During the Procedure?
- A marker will be placed on your breast at the site of the suspicious area that was identified on your mammogram and/or ultrasound.
- Mammogram pictures will be taken to confirm the location of the suspected abnormality.
- In most cases, a local anesthetic will be used. This will be done with a very tiny needle and you may feel a slight sting in your breast.
- The imaging physician will then insert another needle.
- A mammogram will again be taken to check the position of the needle tip. If the needle is not at the lesion, the needle will be repositioned and the imaging process repeated.
- When the tip is in the correct position, a small amount of blue dye will be injected through it. The needle will be removed or replaced with a wire, and you will be taken to surgery for your biopsy.
- Your exam will take approximately 60 minutes.
- Before, During and After the Procedure
For more information or to make an appointment, please call 310-423-8000.
The S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center provides a full range of advanced imaging, both radiology and cardiology, as well as interventional radiology and interventional tumor (oncology) treatments to the greater Los Angeles area, including Beverly Hills, Encino, Mid-Cities, Sherman Oaks, Silver Lake, Studio City, Toluca Lake, and West Hollywood.