ABSTRACT
Needle and Wire Localization Most of the lesions are deeper in the breast and require the use of an internal marker for localization. In 1976, Frank et al. (2) fi rst proposed the use of a needle and hook wire for localization, and this method remains the most commonly used localization technique for impalpable lesions. In a series of 665 guide-wire localized biopsies, excision of the radiological lesion was achieved with a single procedure in 99% of cases. In only 4% of cases was repositioning of the wire required (3). The needle and wire system used varies between different manufacturers and different units, but the principles remain the same. For example, an Accura spring-hook wire has a thickened segment that begins 2 cm from the wire tip to act as a palpable landmark for the surgeon to gauge distance to the tip and therefore the lesion. Alternatively, the Reidy wire has an X-shaped hook that provides secure fi xation and limits wire migration once deployed (Fig. 24.1).
