[Value of ultrasound detection of post-Mammotome scar for preoperative localization of breast microcalcifications]. / Intérêt de la recherche échographique de cicatrice post-Mammotome pour le repérage préopératoire des foyers de microcalcifications mammaires.

PURPOSE: We attempted to find ultrasound scar subsequent to vacuum assisted breast biopsy (Mammotome system) previously performed, and to enhance its value for preoperative localization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Our study included 34 females requiring needle localization prior to surgery. They previously had Mammotome core biopsies for clustered microcalcifications. US examination was systematically performed before insertion of the metallic marker, in order to detect a scar. Identification of the scar allowed ultrasonographic guided localization. The accuracy was correlated with histologic findings. RESULTS: Ultrasonography detected a scar in 21 of the 34 patients (63%). Among all these cases, a perfect correlation could be established between ultrasound target and histologic scar revealed by microscopic examination. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound detection of scar allows ultrasonographic guidance and can therefore be the only alternative in cases of absence or displacement of the marker clip.