Simultaneous use of magnetic method in localization of impalpable breast cancer and sentinel lymph nodes detection: initial experience

Abstract

Aim: In this study we used a new technology for localization of non-palpable breast tumors using a small steel marker in conjunction of sentinel nodes (SLNs) detection through injection of SPIO nanoparticles; both detected through a magnetic probe. Materials & methods: Ten patients with biopsy-proven nonpalpable invasive breast carcinoma or premalignant lesions eligible for SLNs biopsy were enrolled in this study. Results: All tumors were removed with safe surgical margins. The mean nodal detection rate was 3.4 nodes per patient. No interferences in magnetic probe measurements due to the presence of both markers in the same breast were observed. Conclusion: Simultaneous use of the magnetic method in localization of impalpable breast tumors and SNs detection makes breast surgery convenient.