Ductoscopy-assisted microdochectomy.

Until 10 years ago, examination of the ductal system of the breast required excision of all the major ducts, in a block of tissue. With mammary ductoscopy, direct visualization of the ducts in vivo has been possible. In the present series of 40 cases, ductoscopy was used to guide the infusion of methylene blue dye, through the endoscope, to find the index duct, which is then removed through a small incision just inside the areola.