The breast lesion excision system (BLES): a novel technique in the diagnostic and therapeutic management of small indeterminate breast lesions?

Abstract

Objective: To investigate whether the breast lesion excision system (BLES) could render formal surgery unnecessary in patients with small indeterminate breast lesions.

Methods: Following review board ethical permission and the consent of each patient, we aimed to perform a complete excision biopsy, with a margin, of small indeterminate breast lesions that measure less than 1 cm. 76 patients with small BIRADS type 3 breast lesions underwent a BLES biopsy. Mean radiological lesion size was 7.1 mm (range 2-10 mm).

Results: 61 lesions had a final benign diagnosis, 6 of which underwent subsequent surgery although only 1 showing residual lesion. 15 lesions were malignant but with residual tumour at re-excision present in only 5 cases.

Conclusion: The BLES biopsy is an efficacious technique at excising small indeterminate breast lesions with a complete margin without the need for follow-up diagnostic surgery in the majority.