Using magnetic markers to locate breast cancer and lymph nodes after chemotherapy

Magnetic Marker Localization for Occult Breast Cancer and Target Axillary Dissection in Node-positive Breast Cancer Post-neoadjuvant Chemotherapy

Not applicable Interventional The University of Hong Kong · NCT05427071

This study is testing if using tiny magnetic seeds can help doctors find and remove breast cancer and lymph nodes more accurately in patients after they have chemotherapy.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT05427071 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the feasibility of using magnetic seed localization for non-palpable breast cancer and targeted axillary dissection in patients with node-positive breast cancer following neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Eligible patients will have magnetic seeds placed in their breast tumor and lymph nodes before starting chemotherapy. After treatment, imaging assessments will guide surgical planning, allowing for breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy with targeted axillary dissection. The study aims to improve surgical outcomes and minimize unnecessary procedures.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with cT1-3N1 invasive ductal carcinoma who are planned for neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with distant metastasis, inflammatory breast cancers, or those who have had previous axillary surgery may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more precise surgeries and better outcomes for breast cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using magnetic localization techniques, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* All patients with cT1-3N1 invasive ductal carcinoma planned for neoadjuvant chemotherapy and/or target therapy
* mentally competent to give informed consent
* Agreed to proceed with curative operation after chemotherapy and tentatively keen for breast conservative surgery and targeted axillary dissection after neoadjuvant chemotherapy
* Radiologically 1-3 ipsilateral axillary lymph node metastases confirmed by cytology or biopsy

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of distant metastasis, inflammatory breast cancers, multi-centric breast cancers
* History of previous ipsilateral axillary surgery or irradiation
* Hypersensitivity to dextran compounds or iron
* Iron overload disease
* Pregnant or lactating patients
* Patients with pacemaker or other implantable metallic devices in chest wall or prosthesis in shoulder
* Mentally incompetent patients

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Breast NeoplasmChemotherapy Effect
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.