Intraoperative Margin Assessment in Breast Cancer Management

The goal of breast-conserving surgery is to excise the tumor with negative margins while achieving a successful cosmetic result. Although it is not feasible to have reexcision rates of zero, several techniques have been described to reduce the need for a return to the operating room. When rates of reexcision are high, consideration should be given to using one or more of these techniques. It is critical that reexcision rates are tracked when new techniques are implemented to ensure progress. In addition, attention must be paid to ensure that cosmetic outcomes remain optimal.