Hookwire & Magseed Insertion

Hookwire and Magseed insertion are procedures used to accurately locate an area of concern within the breast before surgery. These techniques help guide the surgeon to the exact location of an abnormality that may be too small or difficult to feel.

Using imaging guidance (such as ultrasound or mammography), the radiologist precisely places either a fine wire (hookwire) or a tiny magnetic seed (Magseed) into the area of interest.

A hookwire is a very thin wire that is positioned so that its tip sits within or adjacent to the target area, with a small portion remaining outside the skin to guide the surgeon during the operation. Because the wire extends outside the skin, it is typically placed on the same day as surgery.

A Magseed is a small, magnetic marker that is placed entirely within the breast. It can remain safely in place for an extended period and does not need to be inserted on the same day as surgery, allowing greater flexibility in scheduling. During surgery, a specialised probe is used to detect the seed and guide accurate removal of the targeted tissue.

To ensure your comfort, local anaesthetic is always used to numb the area before the procedure begins. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, and the procedure is typically quick and well tolerated.

These localisation techniques improve surgical accuracy and help ensure that the correct area is removed. Your surgeon will discuss the results and next steps with you after the procedure.

When something small is hard to see,
And needs a surgeon’s accuracy,
We mark the spot so they can find
The exact location, well defined.

With imaging to guide the way,
The radiologist will carefully lay
A tiny marker, placed just right,
To lead the surgeon to the site.

A hookwire sits both near or in,
With just a thread upon the skin,
It shows the path, both clear and true—
But means it’s done the same day too.

Then there’s Magseed, small and neat,
No wire at all, no external feat,
It sits completely out of view,
With nothing on the skin for you.

And here’s the clever, flexible part:
It doesn’t need a same-day start—
Placed well before, it stays in place,
No rush, no stress, no timing race.

Don’t worry—before we begin,
We numb the area of the skin,
So while you might feel slight pressure through,
We keep things comfortable for you.

It’s quick, it’s safe, it’s thoughtfully planned,
With careful, skilled, and steady hand—
A precise and smarter way to ensure
The surgeon finds what needs a cure.

✿  ❤  ✿  ❤  ✿