Magnetic seeds have emerged as an important innovation in breast cancer surgery, offering a non-radioactive method for localizing non-palpable tumors and biopsy sites. This article explains what magnetic seeds are, why they were developed, and how they are used in clinical practice to support accurate and efficient breast cancer surgery.
A magnetic seed is a small implantable marker composed of biocompatible material with magnetic properties. It is placed into or near a breast tumor, biopsy site, or lymph node under image guidance prior to surgery. During the operation, the seed is detected using a magnetic probe that provides real-time feedback to the surgeon.
Unlike passive biopsy clips, magnetic seeds actively guide the surgeon to the target location, translating imaging findings into actionable intraoperative information.
Traditional localization techniques such as wire-guided localization and radioactive seed localization have limitations that affect workflow and patient experience. Wire-guided localization requires placement on the day of surgery and can cause discomfort or displacement. Radioactive seeds involve regulatory complexity and dependence on nuclear medicine infrastructure.
Magnetic seeds were developed to address these challenges by providing:
Magnetic seeds are used across a range of breast cancer procedures, particularly when lesions are non-palpable or poorly visible at the time of surgery.
Common applications include:
More context on lumpectomy workflows is provided in Lumpectomy Procedure, while post-treatment localization challenges are discussed in Tumor Bed Localization After Neoadjuvant Therapy.
Magnetic seeds do not replace biopsy clips, but rather build upon them. In many cases, a clip is placed at biopsy to mark the lesion, followed later by placement of a magnetic seed to guide surgical excision.
This stepwise approach ensures continuity of care across diagnosis, treatment, and surgery. A broader overview of localization concepts is available in Breast Cancer Localization: Guiding Surgeons in the Removal of Abnormal Tissue.
Compared to wire-guided localization, magnetic seeds eliminate the need for same-day placement and reduce patient discomfort. Compared to radioactive seeds, they avoid radiation exposure and associated regulatory requirements.
A detailed comparison of localization techniques can be found in Seed Localization vs Wire-Guided: What Surgeons Need to Know.
Clinical studies have demonstrated that magnetic seed localization is safe and effective for guiding breast-conserving surgery. Published reviews indicate comparable or improved margin outcomes compared to traditional localization methods.
For example, a review available on PubMed highlights the feasibility and clinical performance of magnetic seed localization in breast cancer surgery.
In January 2026, Sirius Medical announced that its Pintuition® Surgical Marker Navigation System achieved MDR CE-mark certification. The Medical Device Regulation represents the most stringent regulatory framework for medical devices worldwide.
As part of this certification, Pintuition® received expanded indications, including approval for long-term implantation. This enables radiology teams to place the Pintuition Marker® at the time of biopsy, rather than immediately before surgery, allowing greater flexibility in clinical workflows.
Additional product updates include expanded probe re-sterilization options and the introduction of a shorter 7 cm needle, broadening clinical applicability across patient anatomies and procedural settings.
Sirius Medical developed Pintuition® to translate magnetic seed placement into precise surgical guidance. The Pintuition Marker® functions as a reliable reference point throughout the surgical pathway.
During surgery, the Pintuition System®, enhanced by TargetLOC® technology, provides real-time distance and directional guidance, enabling surgeons to efficiently locate and remove non-palpable lesions.
This integrated approach supports accurate resections, predictable workflows, and improved coordination between radiology and surgery.
Request a demo or explore our resources to learn how Sirius Medical supports precise breast cancer surgery.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.