Lesion localization before surgery (guide wire, hook, clip)

Background and indications

When a tumor is small, deep or not palpable, localization is needed before surgery so the surgeon can precisely identify it. This frequently concerns lung nodules, liver lesions or other deep tumors.

Benefits

Enables more precise and conservative surgery, avoiding removal of excessive healthy tissue.

Procedure

Under local anesthesia, a guide wire (hook), clip or dye is placed in or near the lesion under CT or ultrasound guidance. The procedure is quick (15-30 minutes) and performed the same day or day before surgery.

Risks

Pneumothorax (for lung lesions), minor puncture site bleeding, marker migration (rare).

Recovery and follow-up

Surgery is performed within hours. The marker is removed with the surgical specimen.

Practical information

Local anesthesia. Outpatient procedure (return home the same day).