Hookwire Insertion

Hookwire Insertion

A Specialist Breast Surgeon will sometimes ask for a location device called a 'hookwire' to be inserted into the breast tissue prior to surgery. The device enables the surgeon to precisely localize the area that needs to be removed during surgery.

This procedure is arranged by the surgeon at a time that fits in with the planned surgery.

The 'hookwire' is placed into position by a Radiologist using either Mammography or Ultrasound technology to aid him/her. The procedure is usually done immediately prior to surgery (within a few hours).

Local anesthetic is injected into the skin and a fine needle which contains the wire is inserted into the area. The needle is removed and the wire remains in place. A small hook on the end of the wire serves to hold it in its postion.

The procedure takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

This procedure is carried out at Promed Branch, Tauranga