ABSTRACT
Wire-guided/needle-localisation procedures have been the mainstay technique for impalpable breast lesion localisation, although wire displacement, pain during the procedure, needlestick injury, infection risk and time restriction between insertion and surgery are important limitations. Three-dimensional navigation allows real-time orientation of impalpable lesions relative to the surgical dissection. In one study, sensors were placed on the localisation wire, diathermy handpiece and ultrasound probe to allow real-time tracked localisation using intraoperative ultrasound scanning. On the horizon are a variety of novel products and techniques that seek to improve upon the status quo. Innovation has been defined as “the creation of a desired future”, and, more than just inventive, it is transformative. In an era of evidence-based medicine, pilot and feasibility trials should be well conceived and novel products should both be encouraged but also rigorously evaluated through well-designed, collaborative multicentre studies to reduce bias.
