Abstract:
Introduction:
Established procedures in breast diagnostics for diagnosis confirmation using high-speed core biopsy have been complemented by large-bore vacuum biopsy (VB) for some time. In combination with high resolution ultrasound (US), large-bore VB procedures can be used for precise diagnosis confirmation and removal of benign breast lesions using a minimal invasive technique.
Methods:
A gel-simulation model was developed in collaboration with the Centre for Textile and Process Engineering in Denkendorf, by means of which the removal of benign breast lesions (e.g. fibroadenoma) using VB could be imitated. Two double-lobed oval models made of flexible synthetic material which could be cut with the HH-Mammatome® were produced. Further requirements of the model were good sonic reflection with minor dorsal sonic effacement during ultrasound. The following model was chosen: Elastosil RT 625 (two-component silicone rubber). The model was produced in moulds with a longitudinal axis from 4 mm to 20 mm. The silicone model was subsequently implanted in turkey meat and removed with 11G and 8G needles under 2D- and 3D-ultrasound.
Results:
A simulation model was developed which mimicked a fibroadenoma as an indicator lesion for a benign breast lesion. The minimum number of cylinders to be removed per tumour volume, the maximum tumour size for complete excision and the optimal needle size were determined. Standard curves were produced, which indicated the number of cylinders to be removed per longitudinal axis of the lesion for each respective needle size. Lesions up to a longitudinal axis of 10 - 12 mm could be removed sonographically using the 11G needle, and lesions with a longitudinal axis of a maximum of 18 mm with the 8G needle. After assumption of complete removal sonographically, 4 - 6 further cylinders were removed and the biopsy cavity was inspected for residues. The 3D-ultrasound control did not allow any significant improvement in the examination. The 8G needle enabled a quicker and more complete removal of a lesion, as there was less fractionation of the tissue. The models (equivalent to a benign lesion) were removable up to 18 mm using VB.
Conclusion:
By means of the gel model developed here, the feasibility of complete removal of certain breast lesions using VB-systems could be proven. The standard curves produced with the gel-turkey phantom assist the clinician in the implementation of diagnostic-therapeutic VBs with the aim of complete removal sonographically. Benign lesions up to ca. 18 mm are removable using VB.