The team at Birmingham Breast Group (BBG) comprises expert breast surgeons, radiologists, and nuclear medicine specialists with specialised training and extensive experience in performing Magtrace© lymph node mapping procedures. Our professionals possess advanced knowledge of breast anatomy, lymphatic drainage pathways, and imaging techniques, ensuring accurate localization and evaluation of sentinel lymph nodes. Our collaborative approach and multidisciplinary expertise enable optimal surgical planning and personalised patient care, reflecting BBG’s commitment to excellence and innovation in breast cancer management.
Treatments - Breast Surgery
Magtrace
![Treament Hero](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/smush-webp/2024/03/Magtrace-Birmingham-Breast-Group.jpg.webp)
In the realm of breast cancer treatment, precision and accuracy are essential for optimal outcomes. Magtrace©, an innovative lymph node mapping technology, has emerged as a groundbreaking solution, offering enhanced accuracy and efficiency in identifying and assessing lymph node involvement. Within the comprehensive breast cancer management services at Birmingham Breast Group (BBG), the integration of Magtrace© represents a significant advancement, maximising improved surgical outcomes and personalised patient care.
At a Glance
Treatment time:
15 minutes
Anaesthetic:
Local Anaesthetic
Return to work:
Next Day
Duration:
Can last for several weeks
Final results:
Lymphatic Mapping in Breast Cancer
About This Treatment
Magtrace© is a magnetic tracer agent designed for lymphatic mapping in breast cancer patients
Unlike traditional methods such as blue dye or radioactive tracers, Magtrace© utilises magnetic nanoparticles that are injected into the breast tissue, allowing for precise and reliable identification of lymph nodes draining the primary tumour site. This technology offers several advantages, including increased accuracy, reduced risk of adverse reactions, and improved patient safety.
The Magtrace© procedure begins with the injection of the Magtrace© magnetic tracer agent into the breast tissue surrounding the primary tumour. Once injected, the Magtrace© nanoparticles travel through the lymphatic vessels, following the natural drainage pathway towards the regional lymph nodes. During surgery, a handheld magnetic probe is used to detect the presence of Magtrace-labeled lymph nodes, providing real-time guidance to our surgeon for accurate lymph node dissection.
Magtrace© lymph node mapping is typically performed as an outpatient procedure on the same day as the surgical intervention. Following injection of the Magtrace© tracer agent, patients undergo imaging studies using the Sentimag machine, to visualise the lymphatic drainage pattern and identify sentinel lymph nodes. During surgery, the surgeon utilises a magnetic probe to locate magnetic nanoparticles that are injected into the breast tissue, allowing for precise and reliable identification of lymph nodes draining the primary tumour site. This technology offers several advantages, including increased accuracy, reduced risk of adverse reactions, and improved patient safety.
The integration of Magtrace© into breast cancer management services at BBG is expected to yield several positive outcomes. Firstly, Magtrace© technology enhances the accuracy and reliability of lymph node mapping, ensuring the precise identification and evaluation of sentinel lymph nodes. This improves staging accuracy and informs treatment decisions, leading to more personalised and effective patient care. Additionally, Magtrace© offers a safer and more patient-friendly alternative to traditional lymphatic mapping methods, minimising the risk of adverse reactions and optimising surgical outcomes.
Birmingham Breast Group (BBG) is committed to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care to breast cancer patients, incorporating cutting-edge technologies like Magtrace© into its comprehensive management framework. The seamless integration of Magtrace© within BBG’s services reflects a dedication to innovation, excellence, and patient-centred care, with expectations of improved surgical outcomes and enhanced patient experience.
At BBG, Magtrace© lymph node mapping is performed by a multidisciplinary team of breast surgeons, radiologists, and nuclear medicine specialists, working collaboratively to ensure accurate lymph node localisation and optimal surgical planning. This multidisciplinary approach facilitates seamless coordination between imaging, surgery, and pathology departments, resulting in a streamlined and efficient patient pathway.
Central to BBG’s philosophy is a patient-centred approach that prioritises individualised care and patient comfort. Magtrace© lymph node mapping offers several benefits for patients, including reduced procedure times, minimise discomfort, and enhanced safety compared to traditional lymphatic mapping methods. By leveraging Magtrace© technology, BBG aims to improve the patient experience and optimise surgical outcomes for breast cancer patients.
BBG remains committed to ongoing research and innovation in breast cancer management, including the evaluation of new technologies and techniques such as Magtrace© lymph node mapping. By participating in clinical trials and research studies, BBG contributes to the advancement of breast cancer care and ensures that patients have access to the latest evidence-based treatments and technologies.
Magtrace© represents a significant advancement in lymph node mapping for breast cancer patients, offering enhanced accuracy, safety, and patient comfort compared to traditional methods. Within the comprehensive breast cancer management services at Birmingham Breast Group (BBG), the integration of Magtrace© technology exemplifies a commitment to innovation, excellence, and personalised patient care. With expectations of improved surgical outcomes and enhanced patient experience, Magtrace© continues to redefine the standard of care in breast cancer management, ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life for patients.
![Treatment Image](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/smush-webp/2024/03/Magtrace-Birmingham-Breast-Group2.jpg.webp)
Frequently Asked Questions
Candidates for Magtrace© lymph node mapping include breast cancer patients undergoing surgical intervention, particularly those requiring sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection. Magtrace© is especially beneficial for patients with non-palpable or early-stage breast lesions requiring accurate lymph node assessment. Additionally, individuals with large or multifocal tumours may benefit from Magtrace© to ensure comprehensive lymph node evaluation. Multidisciplinary evaluation determines candidacy, ensuring that patients receive personalised and effective lymph node mapping strategies tailored to their specific clinical needs and treatment plans within Birmingham Breast Group’s comprehensive breast cancer management program.
Side effects following Magtrace© insertion are typically minimal. Some patients may experience mild discomfort, bruising, or swelling at the injection site, which typically resolves within a few days. There may also be a brown discolouration to the skin where the Magtrace© was injected. Allergic reactions to the Magtrace© tracer agent are uncommon but possible, although stringent pre-screening protocols help mitigate this risk. Additionally, there’s a slight risk of infection or bleeding at the injection site, although adherence to sterile techniques minimise these risks. Overall, Magtrace© insertion is a safe and well-tolerated procedure, providing accurate lymph node mapping with minimal side effects for patients undergoing breast cancer treatment. The use of MRI following injection of Magtrace© will be discussed with you as this can cause degradation of some of the MRI images.
Following Magtrace© insertion, downtime is minimal. Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately after the procedure, including work, driving, and light exercise. Since Magtrace© insertion is minimally invasive and causes minimal discomfort, most patients experience little to no downtime. However, it’s advisable to avoid strenuous activities for a day or two to allow the injection site to heal properly. Overall, Magtrace© insertion is a well-tolerated procedure with minimal disruption to daily activities, providing accurate lymph node mapping with enhanced patient convenience and comfort.
How much does Magtrace cost at Birmingham Breast Group?
As each case is unique, the cost of treatment at BBG may vary depending on individual factors. We tailor our approach to meet your specific needs, ensuring that you receive personalised care and comprehensive support throughout your journey.
Initial consultation
please enquire
All consultations are conducted in strict privacy and all information is confidential.
Surgery costs from
based on consultation
Each procedure has its own personalised treatment plan that is meticulously tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. Healthcare Insurance may be accepted.
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Our Specialist Team
Meet the dedicated professionals at Birmingham Breast Group – committed to excellence, compassion, and personalised care for every patient.
BSc, MBBS, MSc, MRCS (Ed), FRCS (Eng), MD, FEBS
Naren Basu
Lead Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon
BSc, BM, MRCP, FRCR, MD
Daniel Henderson
Consultant Clinical Oncologist
MBChB, PhD, FRCS (Eng)
Ms Salena Bains
Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon
Consultant Clinical oncologist
Dr James Good
PhD, FRCR
BSc, PhD, FRCP
Professor Daniel Rea
Professor of Medical Oncology
MRCP, FRCR
Dr Sara Meade
Consultant Clinical Oncologist
BSc, MBBS, MRCS, FRCR
Dr Faisal Majid
Consultant Radiologist
MSc, PhD, FRCPath
Dr Abeer Shaaban
Path Consultant Pathologist
Bsc, MBBS, MD (Pathology) FRCPath
Dr Rachna Awasthi
Path Consultant Pathologist
Dawn Larkin
Breast Care Specialist Nurse
Ruth Tracey
Macmillan Breast Health Care Assistant
Dr Nadia Alishah
Job Title Here
Qualifications Here
Gill Farrington
Breast Care Specialist Nurse
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019
I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019
I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019
Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020
I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019
I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019
I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019
I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019
Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020
I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019
I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.
![logo](https://birminghambreastgroup.com/wp-content/themes/bbg/images/iWantGreatCare Logo.png)
Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
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