Tucson, Arizona-based Faxitron won FDA clearance to introduce its LOCalizer radio frequency identification (RFID) lesion localization system intended for tagging and subsequently honing in on breast lesions during surgeries. Radioactive tags and implanted wires are currently being used to mark neoplastic and suspicious breast lesions.
Unlike radioactive isotopes, the LOCalizer doesn’t emit ionizing radiation and can be implanted using a syringe up to a month before surgery without anything remaining protruding through the skin. Each tag is covered by a coating that helps to prevent its migration through the breast tissue.
During surgery the physician uses a handheld device that generates ever faster audio beeps in response to getting closer to the tag. Once the general area where the tag resides is located, a pen-like attachment is used to more precisely identify the spot. The screen on the LOCalizer tracking device shows the distance to the tag and also displays the tag number, helping to make sure the right target is being excised.
Faxitron believes its device will help hospitals avoid regulations related to radioactive material handling, help reduce procedural scheduling conflicts, and improve patients’ overall experience of receiving breast cancer care.
Here’s a Faxitron info video on the LOCalizer:
Product page: LOCalizer…
Via: Faxitron…
