Needle Localization 

Needle localization is a procedure used to mark a small area of abnormal tissue in the breast so it can be removed by surgery.

During a needle or wire localization, a thin, hollow needle is inserted into the breast. A
mammogram is taken to make sure that the needle is in the right place. Then a fine wire is inserted through the hollow needle, to mark the area of tissue to be removed.

Next, the needle is removed, and another mammogram is taken. Patients will then go to the operating room where the surgeon removes the wire and surrounding breast tissue. The tissue is sent to the lab to be checked for signs of disease.

This procedure helps increase surgical accuracy, decrease operative time and minimize tissue loss.