At PI Medical, we provide specialised products that support healthcare professionals in accurate diagnosis and treatment. Iodine markers, also known as I-125 Tumour Localisation Seed Sources, are used to accurately mark non-palpable tumours, particularly in breast tissue, before surgery.
The marker consists of a sterile needle containing a low-activity iodine-125 marker. Before surgery, this small marker is placed in or near the tumour tissue under mammographic guidance (stereotactic placement) or ultrasound guidance.
During surgery, the surgeon can accurately determine the location of the marker using a gamma probe. This identifies the location of the abnormal tissue and indicates which area needs to be removed.
Not all tumours in breast tissue can be detected by touch. This can make it difficult to determine the exact location of the abnormal tissue during surgery.
The marker enables the tumour to be accurately marked beforehand. This allows the surgeon to locate and remove the relevant area more precisely during the procedure. It contributes to an accurate surgical intervention while preserving as much surrounding healthy tissue as possible.
Would you like more information about the application possibilities within your healthcare institution or the supplier Epsilon Redioactive Sources? Please contact PI Medical via the form above. Our specialists would be happy to tell you more about the product and help you find a suitable application.
Before surgery, the needle is placed in or near the abnormal tumour tissue under ultrasound or stereotactic guidance. A sterile 18G needle containing the I-125 marker is used for this procedure. Once the desired location has been reached, the small iodine marker is deployed from the needle.
After placement, ultrasound or radiography is used to verify that the marker is in the correct position. During surgery, the surgeon uses a gamma probe to locate the tissue that needs to be removed accurately. The marker is removed together with the abnormal tissue.
The I-125 Seed Source contains a low level of radioactive material and may only be used by physicians who are experienced in handling radioactive materials. Until the product is used, it must be stored in the designated lead shielding.
Iodine markers make it possible to accurately mark non-palpable tumours before surgery. This allows the surgeon to locate and remove the abnormal tissue more precisely during the procedure.
Placement can be performed and verified before surgery using ultrasound or radiography. This supports the accurate preparation and execution of the procedure while preserving as much surrounding healthy tissue as possible.
The I-125 marker is a well-established method of tumour localisation. It is also the most economical option compared with other non-radioactive markers.
An important advantage is that the marker does not cause artefacts on MRI scans. This is particularly beneficial for patients receiving neoadjuvant treatment, as it allows for clear imaging and an accurate assessment of the interim treatment response.
