Intraoperative intraductal injection of methylene blue dye to assist in major duct excision

Abstract

Nipple discharge is not uncommon in women during their reproductive years. The etiology is benign in the majority of cases. Patients presenting with nipple discharge often require major duct excision (MDE) for accurate diagnosis and treatment. MDE is enhanced by the use of intraoperative injection of methylene blue dye into the discharging duct in order to aid visualization. Methylene blue dye–enhanced MDE has several advantages over traditional techniques. Methylene blue dye staining identifies the major discharging duct, as well as its side branches, which allows the surgeon to resect that specific ductal system only. This method allows neighboring major ducts to remain intact, preserving nipple function and permitting future cancer detection. Methylene blue–enhanced MDE allows the surgeon to more accurately determine the precise location and volume of tissue that needs to be excised. Lastly, methylene blue is both safe and inexpensive.