ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The optimal technique and timing for the implantation of a recently developed breast brachytherapy balloon catheter (MammoSite; Proxima Therapeutics, Alpharetta, Georgia) have not been well defined. We hypothesized that placing this postoperatively, utilizing percutaneous ultrasound-guided placement, would be preferable. METHODS: Patients who met eligibility requirements for breast brachytherapy were implanted with the MammoSite device utilizing percutaneous ultrasound-guided technique. Additionally, to study optimal timing, a historical cohort of patients operated upon for breast cancer by two of the authors were analyzed to compare the intraoperative and postoperative candidacy for MammoSite placement. RESULTS: Twenty-one of 23 patients successfully completed brachytherapy after implantation, with only 2 (9%) requiring catheter removal secondary to unfavorable balloon positioning. There were no serious complications. Of 343 historical patients with breast cancer, 137 were intraoperative candidates for brachytherapy, but final postoperative histology disqualified 40 (29%). CONCLUSIONS: Implantation of the MammoSite brachytherapy device is optimally performed postoperatively, after the final pathology is defined, utilizing ultrasound-guided percutaneous technique.