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A large clinical trial across several countries has shown that the use of new technology helped surgeons more effectively remove breast cancer tumours.

The trial included 418 patients from across the countries involved. Heidi Jones, from Corringham in Essex, was one of the 19 UK patients who took part.

The 53-year-old also happens to be a staff nurse on the Surgical Day unit at Basildon Hospital, working with breast cancer patients daily. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025, the day after her birthday.

Heidi, who has been a nurse for 29 years, felt a pain in her breast and, having just received a text about a routine mammogram, booked the next available slot. Following this scan she needed a biopsy, and it was then confirmed she had breast cancer and her care began soon after.

The mum of two grown up children, said: “I see a lot of women with breast cancer in my role, so when I found out I was eligible for this study I jumped at the opportunity.

“Having this procedure was far less uncomfortable for me than for other women I know who have experienced traditional methods, which gave me real peace of mind and made it a far less daunting experience. It was also explained to me how this new way of locating the tumour meant I may have a better chance of having a precise removal of my tumour. 

“That was very reassuring, and I wanted to give myself the very best opportunity to be cancer-free. It was a no-brainer for me, and I hoped it would also give me the best opportunity to see my granddaughter, who is almost two, grow up. She has been my inspiration.” 

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust was one of just two UK centres taking part in the trial with 21 others from across the US, Canada and Austria. 

Research from the trial observed that this new approach may make breast cancer surgery more precise and effective. 

The Trust studied the Breast Cancer Locator (BCL) System and compared it to conventional methods used to find a tumour for lumpectomy surgery, where a portion of tissue from the breast is removed. 

The trial found the BCL System did a better job in helping surgeons to remove the complete tumour, with a 32% reduction in the positive margin rate, when residual cancer remains after surgery. The trial also showed that there were 34% fewer second surgeries needed when using the BCL System in surgery. 

Mr Wayne Chicken, Heidi’s breast surgeon, said: “Breast cancers commonly have an irregular shape, and this study was designed to determine if giving the surgeon more precise information about the tumour size, shape and location using a customised guidance device might allow more successful surgeries.

“The BCL technology meant we were able to define the precise location and boundaries of even the most difficult tumours, and to view tumours in 3D before and during surgery. 

“This detailed tumour guidance is information that has been missing with other methods until now.”   

Using the BCL System, Heidi’s breast cancer surgery was a success, with the tumour removed completely. Heidi has thankfully been cancer-free since her surgery was performed in July last year. 

She said: The staff were all amazing and I’ve been recommending this new method. It’s been great to see how this new technology helps improve the lives of patients, giving us far more confidence in our cancer journey. 

I’m forever grateful to everyone involved in this study at the Trust, as well as those who created the technology in the US. With me being a part of this trial, I’d like to think I’ve played my own small part in helping improve cancer care for others in the future.