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Women's Health Oct 3, 2026 2 mins read

How Magnetic Markers Help Pinpoint Breast Tumors

Finding breast tumors is a key step in breast cancer care. Discover how magnetic marker localization supports your lumpectomy and overall comfort.

By Aparjita Spencer, MD, fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist, CommonSpirit Medical Group - Breast Care

Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis changes a person’s life, and modern medical advancements are helping us navigate this journey with more precision and patient-centered care than ever before. If you have been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, your care team may recommend a lumpectomy — a surgery that removes the tumor while preserving healthy breast tissue.  To perform this procedure with the highest degree of accuracy, surgeons use a process called breast localization to identify the exact location of the tumor.

Why is Localization Necessary?

Because many tumors are very small or cannot be felt during a physical exam, surgeons use localization to pinpoint the precise location of the cancer before surgery begins. Traditionally, this process involves wires placed the morning of the procedure. Magnetic localization markers are another way to achieve the same goal.

How the Magnetic Marker Works

  • Preparation: Days or even weeks before your surgery, the team places a sterile magnetic marker roughly the size of a grain of rice into the center of the tumor.
  • Detection: During surgery, the surgeon uses a specialized handheld probe that detects the magnetic signal from the marker. This acts like a GPS for the surgeon, allowing them to locate the tumor.

Key Benefits

  • Flexibility: The team can place the marker in advance of surgery, which helps streamline your hospital visit on the day of the procedure.
  • Comfort: Because the marker remains safely in position, patients can continue their daily activities.

What to Expect

The magnetic marker is placed during a quick clinic visit under local anesthesia. Patients remain awake, and our team will ensure you are comfortable throughout the brief process.

We are Here for You

Our clinical team is dedicated to providing the most advanced, compassionate care possible.  We are here to support you throughout your entire treatment and recovery journey.

Learn more about the care we provide at CommonSpirit Medical Group - Breast Care or find a doctor near you.