Needle localization, also known as fine wire localization, is a breast biopsy technique used if the mass is too small to be felt by touch.
What to Expect During Your Needle Localization Procedure
Board-certified radiologists at Magee-Womens Imaging will locate the mass by performing a mammogram or ultrasound.
Once the radiologist locates the mass, your team of doctors will:
- Numb the area of your breast with a local anesthetic
- Insert a localization needle into your breast, pointing toward the spot that needs to be biopsied
- Take more images to confirm the position of the needle
- Withdraw the needle, leaving the wire behind
- Take one last mammogram image to confirm the placement of the wire
Needle localization typically takes one to two hours to perform, and the wire will remain in place until your biopsy surgery.
