In breast cancer surgery, precision is everything. For decades, wire-guided localization has been the standard technique to mark and remove non-palpable tumors. But this method has drawbacks that increasingly no longer fit the demands of modern surgical care. Seed localization is emerging as a safer, more efficient, and patient-friendly alternative. In this article, we explore how these two techniques compare and why more hospitals are transitioning to seed-based approaches.
Seed localization involves the placement of a tiny magnetic or radioactive marker inside or near the tumor using ultrasound or mammographic guidance. This seed helps the surgeon find and remove the lesion with high accuracy during surgery.
Unlike wire-guided localization, seed placement does not need to occur on the same day as surgery. This improves hospital logistics and reduces delays, offering both staff and patients a more flexible and less stressful experience.
For a visual explanation of seed placement in the surgical workflow, see our article on breast cancer localization and tumor removal.
Wire-guided localization has been widely used since the 1970s. The technique involves inserting a thin wire through the skin into the tumor, usually on the morning of surgery. The external portion of the wire is taped to the breast until the operation takes place.
This method introduces several challenges:
Despite its familiarity, wire-guided localization does not align with current needs for surgical precision, streamlined hospital workflows, and patient comfort.
A growing body of clinical research supports seed localization. A 2024 meta-analysis published in Diagnostics concluded that seed-based approaches result in significantly fewer positive margins and re-excisions compared to wire-guided methods.
Read the full study
Additionally, a 2023 review from King’s College London highlighted that magnetic and radioactive seeds provide greater placement stability, especially for lesions located deep within the breast tissue.
View review on The Breast
One of the most compelling real-world applications is from St. Vincent’s Hospital in Australia, where magnetic seed technology (Magseed and Magtrace) has been implemented successfully.
Read the news article
These techniques have been shown to reduce reoperation rates and improve cosmetic outcomes, contributing to higher patient satisfaction scores.
A recent Dutch budget impact study published in PLOS One examined the use of magnetic seed localization (MSL) compared to wire and radioactive methods.
Access the full study
The study found that MSL can be cost-effective, particularly when factoring in reduced surgical time, fewer reschedulings, and fewer re-excisions. This makes it a strong candidate for hospitals looking to optimize their care pathway.
Seed localization is considered a safe procedure with a low complication rate. However, a case report published in Discover Oncology in May 2025 described a rare instance of seed migration into the thoracic cavity following lymph node marking.
Read case report
While such events are rare, they highlight the importance of proper placement technique and anatomical awareness during seed insertion. This is particularly relevant for lesions near the chest wall or lymph nodes.
At Sirius Medical, we support the shift toward modern, patient-centered breast cancer surgery through precise and intuitive localization technology. The Pintuition Marker® is a non-radioactive magnetic seed that can be placed days before surgery. It integrates with the Pintuition System®, which provides directional guidance through real-time visual and audio feedback. This enables surgeons to locate tumors with a high degree of accuracy, even in challenging anatomical locations.
By reducing dependency on same-day scheduling and improving workflow efficiency, Pintuition® helps surgical teams deliver consistent care. The system has been adopted by over 200 hospitals globally and has supported more than 35,000 procedures. As clinical evidence continues to grow, more surgeons are embracing seed localization for its ability to reduce re-excisions, improve margins, and enhance patient comfort.
Request a demo or download the Pintuition factsheet for more information. Or get in touch with us.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. While Sirius Medical is dedicated to improving breast cancer treatment through innovative localization technology, we do not provide medical diagnoses or treatment recommendations. If you experience any symptoms or changes in your breast health, consult a qualified healthcare professional promptly. Early medical evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Always seek professional guidance for concerns regarding your health.