Specimen radiography following hook wire localization and excision of screen detected breast abnormality

This study evaluates the role of specimen radiography after hook wire localization. The Otago audit database was searched for women who had hook wire localization and excision-biopsy for screen detected non-palpable breast abnormalities. Specimen X-ray reports were reviewed to assess the completeness of excision on the first attempt of surgical resection. The need for repeat resection at the same operation was reported. There were 152 procedures performed on 148 women. The lesion was correctly removed in 148 occasions with the guidance of the hook wire and confirmed radiographically. When the localization of a non-palpable breast lesion has been successful, specimen radiography reduces the re-excision rate to 2.6%. We suggest that satisfactory hook wire localization obviates the need for specimen radiography in this situation.