Magnetic marker localisation in breast cancer surgery

Since mammographic screening programmes were initiated, the spectrum of breast cancer has changed in terms of impalpable tumours, thus causing the development of new localisation methods, including magnetic markers. We offer herein an up-to-date review focused on two magnetic markers (Magseed, MaMaLoc) currently used in breast cancer surgery for the localisation of breast tumours or pathological axillary nodes. Magnetic marker localisation presents a safe and reliable method for breast tumour marking. Four currently available prospective studies demonstrate that the Magseed system has a negative margin rate and a successful localisation rate, both of which are comparable to standard marking systems used in breast cancer surgery. The main benefits of magnetic markers are that they require no radiation safety measures, and they offer the possibility of longer deployment times, thus simplifying surgery scheduling. The most important drawbacks are cost of the system, depth limitation and need for frequent probe recalibration.

Automated summary

Since the introduction of mammographic screening programmes, the spectrum of breast cancer has changed, leading to the development of new localisation methods such as magnetic markers. Magnetic marker localisation offers a safe and reliable way to mark breast tumours, with comparable rates to standard marking systems. The main advantages of magnetic markers are the absence of radiation safety measures and the possibility of longer deployment times, simplifying surgery scheduling.