The lateral arm device for mammographic breast procedures: overview of its uses, safety, and efficacy

Introduction: Percutaneous image-guided biopsy is the procedure of choice for diagnosing suspicious abnormalities on breast imaging. Stereotactic, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging are used for image-guided breast biopsies. Stereotactic guidance uses mammography to localize lesions and facilitate placement of a core biopsy needle. The first systems used a vertical-approach needle insertion. The lateral arm device, which is the most recent advancement in stereotactic biopsies and pre-surgical localization allows procedures to be performed using a needle insertion parallel to the compression plate. Areas covered: The lateral arm device was introduced to the market in 2007 and is the first device of its kind. In this article we review the mechanism of this device, the risks and benefits of the device and other the different other modalities utilized to biopsy and localize the breast. We summarize the current literature on this device along with our own experiences utilizing this device. Expert opinion: The lateral arm device has changed the face of stereotactic-guided breast biopsies and localizations by allowing a new approach to perform these procedures. It has improved care to patients by allowing us to get to areas previously not within the biopsy window, decreased biopsy time and increased patient throughput.