Recurrence after ROLL lumpectomy for invasive breast cancer

Abstract Background Impalpable breast lesions are being successfully targeted by means of radio-guided occult lesion localisation (ROLL). Although ROLL allows adequate removal of sub-clinical breast lesions within a smaller volume of glandular tissue no long-term outcomes have been reported. Aim To evaluate the recurrence of invasive cancer after ROLL lumpectomy. Methods A consecutive series of impalpable invasive breast cancers excised with ROLL (151 pts; Dec 2002–June 2006) has been followed up for local and/or systemic recurrence with six monthly clinical examinations and 18 monthly mammograms. Bone scan, liver and brain imaging were requested when clinically appropriate. Clinical and/or radiological suspicious lesions for local recurrence were confirmed pathologically. Results The median follow-up was 33 months with all patients having a minimum 22 months follow-up. Three (out of 151 impalpable invasive cancers) local recurrences occurred (1.98%). Conclusions Local recurrence of sub-clinical invasive breast cancer excised with radioisotope guidance compares well with the existing localisation techniques. Its implementation is highly recommended.