Intraoperative Digital Specimen Mammography: Rapid, Accurate Results Expedite Surgery

Abstract

Intraoperative digital specimen mammography (IDSM) was equally accurate as SSM obtained in this study. Use of this new technology allows surgeons to quickly view specimen images which translate into shorter more efficient operations.

Comparison of the time taken for localised breast surgery pre‐ and post‐introduction of intra‐operative digital specimen mammography

“…Studies have shown that IDSM reduces operating times . The significant reduction of 19 minutes per procedure in Kaufmann's study may have been due to image processing (analogue imaging) for the DSR group . The proximity of theatre to the radiology suite was not detailed.…”

“…3,4 The significant reduction of 19 minutes per procedure in Kaufmann's study may have been due to image processing (analogue imaging) for the DSR group. 11 The proximity of theatre to the radiology suite was not detailed. The greater the distance between the operating theatre and the Radiology department, the greater the expected time saved on introduction of IDSM.…”

Does intra‐operative margin assessment improve margin status and re‐excision rates? A population‐based analysis of outcomes in breast‐conserving surgery for ductal carcinoma in situ

“…Specimen mammography, the most frequently utilized technique, did not appear to improve margin status or re‐excision rates. Others have found significant limitations with mammography for margin assessment, largely due to poor sensitivity (22%‐68%) . Our analysis includes all patients with specimen mammography, whether for margin assessment, confirmation of lesion excision, etc; a limitation of our findings is the intent is not captured.…”

Future Directions for Monitoring Treatment Responses in Breast Cancer

“…The goal of intraoperative two-dimensional specimen mammography is similar to other technologies - alert the surgeon to proceed with additional excision of a positive or potentially close margin at the time of surgery 12. The benefit of this method includes easy reproducibility and rapid assessment particularly if necessary equipment is located within the operating room 13. However, continued dilemmas include the variability of results in predicting margin status secondary to limitations in specimen orientation and architectural distortion of the specimen itself such as dense parenchyma 14, 15.…”