Ductal lavage is a screening method[1] used in at-risk women for breast cancer detection.
The procedure involves inserting a catheter (tube) into the nipple, which releases a small amount of salt water into the duct.
Earlier researches, in particular, have deemed it has a good tool for risk assessment for breast cancer.
Seema Khan, M.D., the lead author of the study and the interim director of the Lynn Sage Comprehensive Breast Center and surgeon at Northwestern Memorial Hospital explained, "This study raises serious questions about the utility of ductal lavage as a cancer detection test and shows us that women should not be offered ductal lavage as a method of breast cancer detection.
Ductal lavage does remain promising as a method for obtaining more information about the level of breast cancer risk."