Nonpalpable breast lesions: Mammographic wire‐guided biopsy and radiologic‐histologic correlation

Abstract During a 1‐year period, 2,909 symptomatic women were referred for physical examination of the breast and mammography. In 44 women (1.5%), mammography discovered a total of 45 impalpable breast lesions that might represent an early cancer. Mammographic wire‐guided biopsy was performed using a self‐retaining hook wire for the marking of the lesion. The radiographic localization was facilitated by using a perforated compression plate with holes visible on the mammograms. The biopsy method showed high precision and accuracy. Only 1 guide wire was needed in each instance. In 96% of cases, the wire transfixed the lesion or was placed in close proximity (within 1 cm) to the lesion. Correct biopsy was achieved in all instances, but in some cases more than 1 biopsy was necessary. The malignancy rate was 29% of biopsies and 30% of patients. The metastatic rate to axillary lymph nodes was 17%. Generally, the histologic pattern showed great variety with several different components in most specimens. The radiologic‐histologic correlation is tabulated and the significance of preclinical breast cancer detection is emphasized. The biopsy method described is reliable and highly recommended. We found the procedure easy to handle and time‐saving. The method was fully acceptable to patients and the cosmetic results were excellent.