New Minimally Invasive Procedure Enhances Breast Surgery at Albany Medical Center

A new procedure at Albany Medical Center’s Breast Care Center has enhanced precision in the identification and removal of breast tumors.

Through breast seed localization, tiny electromagnetic seeds the size of a grain of rice are used to mark abnormalities in breast tissue that may otherwise be too small to feel or see. Prior to surgery, a radiologist implants the seed where a tumor is located. The seed then allows the breast surgeon to pinpoint the location of the tumor, which results in more precise surgery. Surgeons use a hand-held tracking device to locate the seed and remove the tumor with minimal healthy tissue removal.

Localization seeds are placed days or weeks before surgery. They replace long guide wires previously used to mark a tumor’s location. Wires were implanted on the day of surgery and were often uncomfortable as they protruded from the patient’s skin. Breast seed localization also creates greater flexibility for scheduling surgery and, without two procedures in one day, less anxiety for patients.

The Envisio By Elucent is different from traditional localization seed technology as it uses enhanced 3D surgical navigation to guide the surgeon precisely to the site of the seed, diminishing the impact on normal tissue and providing a clearer view of the margins that need to be removed.

“We continuously seek advanced care options that will enhance our patients’ experience and help set their minds at ease during what can be a difficult journey,” said Lynn Choi, MD, breast surgeon and director of Albany Med’s Breast Care Center. “We’re proud to offer this technology that ensures an accurate surgical removal of cancerous tissue while also improving outcomes and patient satisfaction.”

Albany Medical Center breast surgeons have performed more than 50 cases with localization seeds since July.

For more information or to contact Albany Medical Center’s Breast Care Center, call 518-264-9729.