Breast Imaging

Specimen radiography, breast

the examination of a surgical specimen in order to verify that the proper lesion has been removed. In addition to radiography, ultrasonography may be valuable to demonstrate lesions not visible on radiography. Furthermore, ultrasonography is often more accurate to estimate the relationship between invasive lesions and the margin of the specimen (Fig.1).

Specimen examination is usually performed for impalpable lesions. A system for localization such as a coordinate grid is often used. The lesion in question can be marked e.g. with a pin, helping the pathologist to find the area of interest. Also, see localization procedures breast.

IA/JT

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Fig.1

Specimen radiogram showing a ductal invasive carcinoma localized with a hook wire (a). The margin seems to be appropriate. On ultrasonography of the specimen (b), however, the margin is seen to be narrow anteriorly, necessitating re-excision of the skin (closed arrowheads).
Specimen radiography, breast, Fig.1 (a)
Specimen radiography, breast, Fig.1 (b)