Evaluation of Nonpalpable Breast Mass Excision and Sentinel Node Biopsy Using Radio‑Guided Occult Lesion Localization: A Single‑Stage Procedure

Abstract

With the increased awareness and use of breast cancer screening programs, detection of nonpalpable lesion of breast is also increasing in incidence. Previously, wire guidance under ultrasonography was used for localization of these occult lesions, and in the second stage, sentinel node biopsy (SNB) was taken under radioactive guidance or blue dye injection. We conducted a study to combine radioactive‑guided occult lesion localization (ROLL) with SNB. We concluded that ROLL is an efficient method for the detection of these occult lesions, enabling more effective planning of skin incision, precise excision of the lesion with minimal normal tissue edge excision, and ultimately better postoperative cosmetics. When combined with SNB, it effectively decreases the intraoperative time. Key words: Occult lesion, radio‑guided localization, sentinel node.