MedicalTerminology DB
Procedures & Surgery

wire localization

Meaning of wire localization: A procedure used to mark a small area of abnormal tissue so it can be removed by surgery.

Definition of wire localization

A procedure used to mark a small area of abnormal tissue so it can be removed by surgery. An imaging device is used to guide a thin wire with a hook at the end through a hollow needle to place the wire in or around the abnormal area. Once the wire is in the right place, the needle is removed and the wire is left in place so the doctor will know where the abnormal tissue is. The wire is removed when a biopsy is done. Also called needle localization and needle/wire localization.

Written and maintained by James Murray Last updated July 21, 2026 Educational reference, not medical advice. Read the limitations.

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