Intraoperative ultrasound and other techniques to achieve negative margins

Over the past few decades new procedures and technologies have been introdu ced into clinical practice for the evaluation and management of breast dise ase. Ultrasound is rapidly becoming a valued tool in the armamentarium of t he breast surgeon. The use of ultrasound by radiologists and breast surgeon s to evaluate nonpalpalable detected breast lesions has increased dramatica lly. With its easy portability and improvements in the technology, the use of ultrasound has now expanded into the operating room. In this work we rev iew the value of intraoperative ultrasound and other techniques in obtainin g and assessing margin status. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.