This study aims to validate radioactive seed localization (RSL) as an alternative to wire localization (WL) in the operative excision of nonpalpable breast lesions. Eligible patients were recruited sequentially. A sample of 99 patients treated with WL was compared to the next 383 patients treated with RSL. Margins were considered "negative" if > or =2 mm from in-situ and invasive disease. Pain and convenience scores were recorded on a 10-point scale. Patient characteristics and histology were similar. The lesion and localization device were retrieved in all patients. Margins of the first specimen were negative in 73% of RSL patients, versus 54% of WL patients (p < 0.001). A second operation was required in 8% of RSL patients to achieve negative margins, versus 25% of WL patients (p < 0.001). Pain scores were not statistically different. However, the RSL group had higher convenience scores (p = 0.015). RSL is safe, effective, and compared to WL, reduces the rates of intraoperative re-excision and reoperation for positive margins by 68%. Patient satisfaction is improved with RSL. We strongly favor RSL over WL.

Malpositioned peritoneal dialysis catheters may be repositioned laparoscopically with a testicular prosthesis used as an anchoring weight.

SUMMARY Three methods of plastic embedding were assessed for their value in routine dermatopathology. The J B 4, Taab embedding, and Taab transmit techniques were compared for quality, convenience, and safety. The Taab transmit method was the most satisfactory method, being both rapid and simple. An additional advantage is that the resin can be removed and the immunoperoxidase technique carried out on thin sections. Material and methodsSamples of human skin up to 1 x 0-5 x 0-5 cm in size were fixed in formol calcium for 24 hours and then processed individually in bijoux containing the appropriate solution.METHOD 1: J B 4 (2-HYDROXYETHYL METHACRY LATE) After fixation the sample was dehydrated in three Accepted for publication 21 August 1985 changes of 2,2 dimethoxypropane (DMP) (1 drop concentrated hydrochloric acid/100 ml DMP) for 40 minutes in each change and two twenty minute changes in propylene oxide. The sample was then impregnated by placing in J B 4 processing solution (glycol methacrylate 80 ml and benzoyl peroxide 1 Gm) for two hours followed by J B 4 embedding solution (J B 4 processing solution plus 1 ml polyethylene glycol) for two hours. Polymerising solution (4-6 ml embedding solution plus 1 drop N-N dimethylaniline) was then added to the sample in a small mould, and the mould was covered and left overnight.