Value of intra-operative ultrasound in localization of palpable or non-palpable breast tumors during breast conserving surgery

Purpose

Our study was designed to assess the role of intra-operative ultrasound (IOUS) as a method of localization of palpable or non-palpable breast tumors during breast conserving surgery (BCS) and ensuring adequate margins by comparing pathological results of these lesions to be sure if the IOUS localization is effective as a localization tool or not. We included both palpable and non-palpable to add a great effect to the BCS to ensure adequate margins that are not accurately palpated by the surgeon.

Introduction

Breast conserving surgery (BCS) is an alternative to mastectomy in treatment of cancer breast. The matter of tumor localization is a problematic issue with the wire localization being the commonest with multiple drawbacks. Another method for localization which is the IOUS is investigated.

Patients and methods

This prospective, controlled study enrolled 60 female patients. 30 of them comprised case group (group I) had breast conserving surgeries guided by IOUS and the other 30 patients as a control (group II) who had breast conserving surgeries without any guidance. Specimens Pathological examination was done to ensure the adequacy of free margins.

Results

6 patients from the case group and 14 of the control group had involved inadequate margins.

Conclusion

IOUS is an essential adjunct to surgery that should be experienced to maintain safety and cosmoses as the two major impacts of BCS.