WO2022211727A1

WO2022211727A1 - Apparatus for handling surgically excised specimens

Info

Publication number: WO2022211727A1
Application number: PCT/SG2022/050136
Authority: WO
Inventors: Luck Khng CHIA; Tiong Thye GOO; Shaohui Foong; Jien-Yi KHAW
Original assignee: Alexandra Health Pte Ltd; Singapore University Of Technology And Design
Priority date: 2021-03-31
Filing date: 2022-03-15
Publication date: 2022-10-06

Abstract

The invention relates to the provision of systems, apparatuses, and methods for handling specimens excised via a hookwire localization procedure. The apparatus includes a base structure, an enclosure body, a top structure. The enclosure body includes a hookwire opening and a plurality of top structure securing portions. The base structure, enclosure body, and top structure are configurable to form an inner chamber to receive an excised specimen. In some embodiments, a volume of the specimen chamber of the apparatus may be selectively adjustable by selecting one of the plurality of top structure securing portions to use in receiving the securing portions of the top structure.

Description

APPARATUS FOR HANDLING SURGICALLY EXCISED SPECIMENS

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to systems, apparatuses, and methods for handling surgically excised specimens, and more specifically, to systems, apparatuses, and methods for handling specimens excised via a hookwire localization procedure.

Background

[0002] Certain surgeries, such as breast conserving surgery and lumpectomy procedures, involve the excision (or surgical removal) of tissue containing a tumor. The surgically excised specimen is then sent for X-ray imaging by a radiographer. When an X-ray imaging is performed, it is important for the specimen to be oriented accurately as it helps a breast surgeon judge whether or not additional tissue needs to be excised from the patient.

Brief Summary

[0003] A variety of holders have been developed for transporting of surgically excised specimens between the operating theatre and the X-ray imaging room and holding of such specimens during X- ray imaging. It is recognized in the present disclosure that certain problems arise when using conventional specimen holders. For example, inconsistent orientation/placement of the excised specimen oftentimes results in poor or inadequate quality of X-ray images, which may affect a surgeon's assessment of whether or not additional tissue needs to be excised from the patient. Some surgeons even accompany the excised tissue from the operating theatre to the X-ray imaging room to ensure correct orientation/placement of the excised tissue.

[0004] The present disclosure relates generally to systems, apparatuses, and methods for handling surgically excised specimens excised via a hookwire localization procedure. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus for housing a specimen excised via a hookwire localization procedure. Such apparatus enables multi-planar imaging of the excised specimen when the apparatus housing the excised specimen is provided in an imaging area.

[0005] In an exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for housing a specimen excised via a hookwire localization procedure is described. The excised specimen includes a hookwire provided therethrough. The apparatus includes a base structure. The base structure includes a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the base structure. The base structure also includes an enclosure body having an inner surface, an outer surface opposite to the inner surface of the enclosure body, a top end, and a bottom end opposite to the top end of the enclosure body. At least a portion of the bottom end of the enclosure body is secured to at least a portion of the base structure. The enclosure body also includes a hookwire opening formed through the enclosure body. The hookwire opening is configured to receive the hookwire of the excised specimen. The enclosure body also includes a plurality of top structure securing portions formed on the enclosure body between the top and bottom ends of the enclosure body, including a first top structure securing portion and a second top structure securing portion. The first top structure securing portion is formed at a first distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body. The second top structure securing portion is formed at a second distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body, the first distance greater than the second distance. The apparatus also includes a top structure. The top structure includes a top surface, bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the top structure, and a first securing portion. The top structure is formed in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to at least one of the plurality of top structure securing portions, the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure are collectively configured to form a specimen chamber. The specimen chamber is configured to receive and house the excised specimen. The apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the first top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a first volume. The apparatus is further configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the second top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a second volume, the first volume greater than the second volume.

[0006] In another exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for housing a specimen excised via a hookwire localization procedure and enabling multi-planar imaging of the excised specimen when the apparatus housing the excised specimen is provided in an imaging area is described. The excised specimen includes a hookwire provided therethrough. The apparatus includes a base structure. The base structure includes a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the base structure. The apparatus also includes an enclosure body. The enclosure body includes an inner surface, an outer surface opposite to the inner surface of the enclosure body, a top end, and a bottom end opposite to the top end of the enclosure body. At least a portion of the bottom end of the enclosure body is secured to at least a portion of the base structure. The enclosure body also includes a hookwire opening formed through the enclosure body from the top end of the enclosure body towards the bottom end of the enclosure body. The hookwire opening is configured to receive the hookwire of the excised specimen. The enclosure body also includes a top structure securing portion formed on the enclosure body between the top and bottom ends of the enclosure body. The apparatus also includes a top structure. The top structure includes a top surface, a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the top structure, and a first securing portion. The top structure is formed in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the top structure securing portion of the enclosure body, the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure are collectively configurable to form a specimen chamber. The specimen chamber is configured to receive and house the excised specimen. The apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the apparatus is placed in the imaging area and orientated in such a way that the bottom surface of the base structure rests on a main surface of the imaging area, the apparatus is configured to enable a first imaging of the excised specimen in a direction parallel to a first plane formed by the base structure. The apparatus is further configured in such a way that, when the apparatus is placed in the imaging area and orientated in such a way that the outer surface of the enclosure body rests on the main surface of the imaging area, the apparatus is configured to enable a second imaging of the excised specimen in a direction perpendicular to the first plane formed by the base structure.

[0007] In another exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for housing a specimen excised via a hookwire localization procedure is described. The excised specimen includes a hookwire provided therethrough. The apparatus includes a base structure. The base structure includes a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the base structure. The apparatus also includes an enclosure body. The enclosure body includes an inner surface, an outer surface opposite to the inner surface of the enclosure body, a top end, and a bottom end opposite to the top end of the enclosure body. At least a portion of the bottom end of the enclosure body is secured to at least a portion of the base structure. The enclosure body also includes a hookwire opening formed through the enclosure body from the top end of the enclosure body towards the bottom end of the enclosure body. The hookwire opening is configured to receive the hookwire of the excised specimen. The apparatus also includes a top structure. The top structure includes a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the top structure. The top structure is formed in such a way that, when the top structure is secured to the enclosure body, the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure are collectively configurable to form a specimen chamber. The specimen chamber is configured to receive and house the excised specimen. The apparatus is configured in such a way that the excised specimen is secured in position when the hookwire opening receives the hookwire of the excised specimen and the top structure is secured to the enclosure body.

[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for housing a specimen excised via a hookwire localization procedure is described. The excised specimen includes a hookwire provided therethrough. The apparatus includes a base structure. The base structure includes a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the base structure. The apparatus also includes an enclosure body. The enclosure body includes an inner surface, an outer surface opposite to the inner surface of the enclosure body, a top end, and a bottom end opposite to the top end of the enclosure body. At least a portion of the bottom end of the enclosure body is secured to at least a portion of the base structure. The enclosure body also includes a plurality of top structure securing portions formed on the enclosure body between the top and bottom ends of the enclosure body, including a first top structure securing portion and a second top structure securing portion. The first top structure securing portion is formed at a first distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body. The second top structure securing portion is formed at a second distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body. The first distance is greater than the second distance. The apparatus also includes a top structure. The top structure includes a top surface, a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the top structure, and a first securing portion. The top structure is formed in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to at least one of the plurality of top structure securing portions, the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure are collectively configurable to form a specimen chamber. The specimen chamber is configured to receive and house the excised specimen. The apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the first top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a first volume. The apparatus is further configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the second top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a second volume, the first volume greater than the second volume. Brief Description of the Figures

[0009] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, example embodiments, and their advantages, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, in which like reference numbers indicate like features, and:

[0010] FIGURE 1A illustrates a perspective view of an example embodiment of an apparatus for handling excised specimens with the top structure secured to the enclosure body;

[0011] FIGURE IB illustrates a perspective view of an example embodiment of an apparatus for handling excised specimens with the top structure unsecured from the enclosure body;

[0012] FIGURE 1C illustrates an example of an excised specimen;

[0013] FIGURE 2A illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of an apparatus with the top structure secured to the enclosure body;

[0014] FIGURE 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of an apparatus with the top structure unsecured from the enclosure body;

[0015] FIGURE 2C illustrates another cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of an apparatus with the top structure secured to the enclosure body;

[0016] FIGURE 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another example embodiment of an apparatus with the top structure secured to the enclosure body;

[0017] FIGURE 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another example embodiment of an apparatus with the top structure secured to the enclosure body;

[0018] FIGURE 5 illustrates a perspective view of another example embodiment of an apparatus; [0019] FIGURE 6 illustrates a perspective view of another example embodiment of an apparatus; and

[0020] FIGURE 7 illustrates a perspective view of another example embodiment of an apparatus. [0021] Although similar reference numbers may be used to refer to similar elements in the figures for convenience, it can be appreciated that each of the various example embodiments may be considered to be distinct variations.

[0022] Example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures, which form a part of the present disclosure and which illustrate example embodiments which may be practiced. As used in the present disclosure and the appended claims, the terms "embodiment," "example embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," and "present embodiment" do not necessarily refer to a single embodiment, although they may, and various example embodiments may be readily combined and/or interchanged without departing from the scope or spirit of example embodiments. Furthermore, the terminology as used in the present disclosure and the appended claims is for the purpose of describing example embodiments only and is not intended to be limitations. In this respect, as used in the present disclosure and the appended claims, the term "in" may include "in" and "on," and the terms "a," "an," and "the" may include singular and plural references. Furthermore, as used in the present disclosure and the appended claims, the term "by" may also mean "from," depending on the context. Furthermore, as used in the present disclosure and the appended claims, the term "if may also mean "when" or "upon," depending on the context. Furthermore, as used in the present disclosure and appended claims, the words "and/or" may refer to and encompass any or all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Detailed Description

[0023] Certain surgeries, such as breast conserving surgery and lumpectomy procedures, involve the excision (or surgical removal) of tissue containing a tumor. The surgically excised specimen is then sent for X-ray imaging by a radiographer. When X-ray imaging is performed, it is important for the specimen to be oriented accurately and consistently as it helps a breast surgeon judge whether or not additional tissue needs to be excised from the patient. A variety of holders have been developed for transporting of surgically excised specimens between the operating theatre and the X-ray imaging room, and for holding of such excised specimens during X-ray imaging. It is recognized in the present disclosure that certain problems arise when using conventional specimen holders. For example, inconsistent orientation/placement of the excised specimen oftentimes results in poor or inadequate quality of X-ray images, which may affect a surgeon's assessment of whether or not additional tissue needs to be excised from the patient. Some surgeons even go as far as accompanying the excised tissue from the operating theatre to the X-ray imaging room to ensure correct and/or desired orientation/placement of the excised tissue is achieved for the X-ray imaging.

[0024] One of the main challenges in developing specialized specimen holders is that the excised specimen can be of varying geometries, dimensions, shapes, and/or sizes. A good fit with the specimen is required as a specimen holder that is far too large will allow the specimen to shift, move, rotate, and/or translate inside the holder, thereby losing the desired orientation and position of the specimen. This would cause confusion and possible errors during radiographic imaging and interpreting of the X-ray images. A specimen holder of incorrect geometry or of inadequate size will not allow the specimen to fit inside the holder, rendering the holder useless. Moreover, current methods only allow imaging of a single plane of the specimen. This means that, unless the actual specimen is repositioned (rotated) within the specimen holder (which requires operators to handle the specimen), other X-ray imaging perspectives of the specimen cannot be obtained. Hence, there is a design impetus to develop a modular specimen holder which could be adapted, adjusted, and/or reconfigured for excised specimens of varying shapes, dimensions, and sizes.

[0025] Present example embodiments relate generally to and/or include apparatuses, systems, subsystems, devices, methods, and processes for addressing conventional problems, including those described above and in the present disclosure, and more specifically, example embodiments relate to apparatuses, systems, subsystems, devices, methods, and processes for handling specimens excised via a hookwire localization procedure and/or enabling multi-planar imaging of surgically excised specimens.

[0026] Example embodiments enable an operating surgeon to intro- operatively secure surgically excised specimens of varying shapes, geometries and/or sizes in a desired and consistent orientation for X-ray imaging. Example embodiments may also include marks, symbols, or the like, to allow a radiographer to correctly and readily orientate example embodiments of the apparatus so as to obtain a variety of different views/X-ray image captures, including cranial caudal (or anterior-posterior) and lateral views. For example, lead markings, or the like, denoting "L" for lateral surface and "R" for retrograde/posterior surface may be employed, which will be captured in resultant X-ray images. A radiographer will not need to come into contact with the tissue and blood as it will be housed within the chamber of the apparatus. An interior volume of example embodiments of the apparatus is selectively adaptable or adjustable to accommodate specimens of varying shapes, geometries, and/or sizes, and may be readily fabricated via 3D printing. The apparatus further enables imaging of multiple planes for capturing of all margins in 3D.

[0027] It is to be understood that, while example embodiments are mostly described in the present disclosure as pertaining to breast cancer tissue and surgical breast procedures, the principles described in the present disclosure may also be applied beyond the context of type of tissue, specimen and procedures, such as any other type of tissue or tumor tissue, without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0028] Example embodiments will now be described below with reference to the accompanying figures, which form a part of the present disclosure.

[0029] Example embodiments of an apparatus (e.g., apparatus 1001. [0030] An example embodiment of an apparatus 100 for housing a surgically excised specimen 10 (as illustrated in FIGURE 1C), including those excised via a hookwire localization procedure (e.g., excised specimens 10 having a hookwire 14 through the tissue specimen 12), includes an enclosure body (e.g., enclosure body 200), a base structure (e.g., base structure 250, as illustrated in at least Figures 2A-C and 3-7), and a top structure (e.g., top structure 300). FIGURE 1A is a perspective view and FIGURE 2 A is a cross-sectional view of the top structure 300 secured to the enclosure body 200, which is a configuration that is ready for transporting the excised specimen 10 and providing to a main surface of an X-ray imaging area; and FIGURE IB is a perspective view and FIGURE 2B is a cross-sectional view of the top structure 300 unsecured from the enclosure body 200, which is a configuration that is ready to receive an excised specimen 10.

[0031] Example embodiments of the apparatus 100 and elements thereof will now be further described with reference to the accompanying figures, which form a part of the present disclosure. [0032] Enclosure body (e.g.. enclosure body 200)

[0033] In an example embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes an enclosure body (e.g., enclosure body 200). The enclosure body 200 may be formed as a plurality of side walls 200, or the like, of the enclosure body 200. For example, as illustrated in at least Figures 1A and IB, the enclosure body 200 may be formed having four sidewalls. The enclosure body 200 includes an interior surface 202 (or interior side 202) and an exterior surface 204 (or exterior side 204). The enclosure body 200 also includes a top end 200a and a bottom end 200b. The enclosure body 200 also includes one or more hookwire openings 210. The enclosure body 200 also includes one or more top structure securing portions 206, 208.

[0034] It is to be understood that, while example embodiments of the apparatus 100 are illustrated and described in the present disclosure as being square, rectangular, cubical, and/or box-like in shape and configuration, the apparatus 100 may also be formed in any one or more other shapes, sizes, and/or configurations. For example, the apparatus 100 may be formed as a hexagon, pentagon, octagon, cylindrical, triangular, truncated-conical, or inverted truncated-conical without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure. One or more portions of one or more walls and/or elements of the apparatus (e.g., one or more walls of the enclosure 200, the top structure 300, and/or the bottom structure 250; and/or the main opening 102 of the apparatus 100 (as illustrated in at least Figure 2B), the hookwire opening 210, and/or the top structure securing portions 206, 208) may be formed having flat surfaces and/or shapes, non-flat surfaces and/or shapes, protrusions, textures, indentations, holes/cavities, etc.

[0035] Example embodiments of the enclosure body 200 and elements thereof will now be further described with reference to the accompanying figures, which form a part of the present disclosure. [0036] Interior surface (e. e.. interior surface 202) and exterior surface 204 (e. e.. exterior surface 204).

[0037] As illustrated in at least FIGURE 2A and FIGURE 2B, the enclosure body 200 includes one or more exterior surfaces 204 (or outer surfaces 204). The enclosure body 200 also includes one or more interior surfaces 202 (or inner surface 202). For example, in example embodiments where the enclosure body 200 is formed having four sidewalls (e.g., as illustrated in at least Figures 1 A and IB), the enclosure body 200 includes four interior surfaces 202 and four corresponding exterior surfaces 204. The interior surfaces 202 of the enclosure body 200 may be considered as facing in an opposite direction to corresponding exterior surfaces 204 of the enclosure body 200.

[0038] As described in the present disclosure, the interior surfaces 202 of the enclosure body 200, along with the bottom surface 302 of the top structure 300 (as illustrated in at least Figure 2A) and top surface 252 of the base structure 300 (as illustrated in at least Figure 2A), collectively form a specimen chamber 220 for receiving and housing an excised specimen 10; and a volume of such specimen chamber 220 may be selectively adjustable (e.g., by appropriately selecting one of the plurality of top structure securing portions 206, 208 to use in receiving the securing portions 306, 308 of the top structure 300).

[0039] It is to be understood that, while example embodiments of the interior surfaces 202 and exterior surfaces 204 are mostly described and illustrated in the present disclosure as having substantially flat or 2-dimensional surfaces, one or more portions of one or more interior surfaces 202 and/or exterior surfaces 204 may be formed having flat surfaces and/or shapes, non-flat surfaces and/or shapes, protrusions, textures, indentations, holes/cavities, etc.

[0040] TOO end (e.g.. ton end 200a).

[0041] As illustrated in at least Figures 2A and 2B, the enclosure body 200 includes a top end 200a. The top end 200a of the enclosure body 200 is an end of the enclosure body 200 that is more proximal (as compared to the bottom end 200b) to the main opening 102 of the apparatus 100 (as illustrated in at least Figure 2B) where the excised specimen 10 is to be inserted into the apparatus 100. The top end 200a of the enclosure body 200 is also an end of the enclosure body 200 that is more proximal (as compared to the bottom end 200b) to the top structure 300. In some example embodiments, the enclosure body 200 and the top structure 300 may be formed secured together (e.g., via a hinge, flexible or bendable member or portion, or the like) and/or as a unitary article. The top end 200a of the enclosure body 200 may be considered to be opposite to the bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200.

[0042] Bottom end (e.s., bottom end 200b).

[0043] As illustrated in at least Figures 2A and 2B, the enclosure body 200 includes a bottom end 200b. The bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200 is an end of the enclosure body 200 that is more distal (as compared to the top end 200a) to the main opening 102 of the apparatus 100 (as illustrated in at least Figure 2B) where the excised specimen 10 is to be inserted into the apparatus 100. The bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200 is also an end of the enclosure body 200 that is more distal (as compared to the top end 200a) to the top structure 300. The bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200 is secured to at least a portion of the base structure 250. In some example embodiments, the enclosure body 200 and the base structure 250 may be formed as a unitary article, in which case the base structure 250 may also be considered as part of the bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200 and/or the bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200 may be considered as part of the base structure 250. The bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200 may be considered to be opposite to the top end 200a of the enclosure body 200.

[0044] Hookwire opening (e.e.. hookwire opening 210).

[0045] In an example embodiment, the enclosure body 200 includes one or more hookwire openings (e.g., hookwire opening 210). Each hookwire opening 210 is configured to receive and/or provide passage for a hookwire 14 of an excised specimen 10. It is recognized in the present disclosure that, when a specimen 12 is housed in the specimen chamber 220 and the hookwire 14 of the excised specimen 10 is provided through the hookwire opening 210, the specimen 12 housed in the specimen chamber 220 is secured or fixed in position relative to the apparatus 100 and prevented from changing orientation and/or position (also in cooperation with the top structure 300), thereby improving X-ray imaging of the excised specimen 10.

[0046] Each hookwire opening 210 may be formed in one or more of a plurality of shapes, sizes, and/or configurations. For example, as illustrated in at least Figures 1 A and IB, the hookwire opening 210 may be formed as a slit, elongated opening, or the like. The slit 210 or elongated opening 210 may be formed from the top end 200a of the enclosure body 200 and downward towards the bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200. The slit 210 or elongated opening 210 may extend from the top end 200a of the enclosure body 200 to the bottom structure 250 or to any location between the top end 200a and the bottom structure 250. Such a configuration enables the excised specimen 12 and hookwire 14 to be easily and readily provided into the apparatus 100.

[0047] As illustrated in FIGURE 5, the hookwire opening 210 may also include and/or be formed as one or more flexible members 210, or the like, that can be stretched, bent, compressed, and/or otherwise manipulated in other ways so as to enable a transition between a normally closed position (e.g., default position) and an opened position (e.g., for inserting the hookwire 14 through the hookwire opening 210). Such flexible members 210, or the like, may be formed using rubber, memory shape foam, bendable plastics, gel composites, and/or metal. In such an example embodiment, when an excised specimen 10 needs to be transported, the hookwire opening 210 of Figure 5 is selectively transitioned to be in the opened position so as to allow the hookwire 14 of the excised specimen to be inserted through the hookwire opening 210. The hookwire opening 210 of Figure 5 is then transitioned (e.g., by releasing the normally closed hookwire opening 210) to the closed position, thereby allowing the hookwire opening 210 to firmly surround, hold, pinch, and/or secure the hookwire 14 (and thereby securing or holding the housed excised specimen 12 in place/position (in cooperation with the top structure 300)). In example embodiments without such flexible members 210, or the like, for firmly surrounding, holding, pinching, and/or securing the hookwire 14 at the hookwire opening 210, the hookwire 14 provided through the hookwire opening 210 may be held and/or secured in other ways, such as anchoring to another location on the apparatus 100 and/or via a personnel.

[0048] As illustrated in FIGURE 7, the hookwire opening 210 may also be formed as a hole, opening, and/or cavity through the enclosure body 200. For example, the hookwire opening 210 may be formed as a hole through a corner of the enclosure body 200. Although the figures illustrate the hookwire opening 210 as being formed in a corner (or junction between two walls) of the enclosure body 200, it is to be understood that the hookwire opening 210 may also be formed in other locations of the enclosure body 200, such as on a single wall of the enclosure body 200 (such configuration not shown). In some example embodiments, the hookwire opening 210 can be an unused top structure securing portion 206, 208.

[0049] As illustrated in FIGURE 6, the enclosure body 200 may also include two (or more) hookwire openings 210, which may enable or provide more flexibility/options for securing a hookwire 14 of an excised specimen 10. Although Figure 6 illustrates two hookwire openings 210 as being formed on opposite corners of the enclosure body 200, it is to be understood that the two (or more) hookwire openings 210 may also be formed at other location(s) of the enclosure body 200 as well, such on adjacent corners, on opposite walls of the enclosure body 200, on adjacent walls of the enclosure body 200, on the same corner of the enclosure body 200, on the same wall of the enclosure body 200, at different distances from the top end 200a, at the same distance from the top end 200a, etc., without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure Furthermore, when the enclosure body 200 includes two (or more) hookwire openings 210, two (or more) of the hookwire openings 210 may be the same or different shape, size, and/or configuration.

[0050] Top structure securing portion (e. g. , top structure securing portion 206, 208).

[0051] In an example embodiment, the enclosure body 200 includes a plurality of top structure securing portions (e.g., top structure securing portions 206, 208). For example, the enclosure body 200 may include two or more top structure securing portions 206 on one side wall of the enclosure body 200 (as illustrated in at least Figures 1 A and IB) and two or more other top structure securing portions 208 on an opposite side wall (or another side wall) of the enclosure body 200 (as illustrated in at least Figures 1A and IB). Each top wire securing portion is configured to receive a securing portion 306, 308 of the top structure 300.

[0052] When two or more top structure securing portions 206 or 208 are provided on a particular side wall of the enclosure body 200 (e.g., a first side wall), each top structure securing portion 206 or 208 will be arranged so as to be separated between the top end 200a and bottom end 200b. For example, as illustrated in at Figures 1 A and IB, a top structure securing portion 206 may be provided closest to the top end 200a (e.g., distance dl), another top structure securing portion 206 may be provided further away from the top end 200a (e.g., distance d2), another top structure securing portion 206 may be provided even further away from the top end 200a (e.g., distance d3), and another top structure securing portion 206 may be provided furthest away from the top end 200a (e.g., distance d4).

[0053] A plurality of top structure securing portions 208 may also be provided on another wall of the enclosure body 200 (e.g., in a manner that is similar to, the same as, or different from such top structure securing portions 206 described above and in the present disclosure). For example, at least FIGURE 2C and Figure IB illustrate example embodiments wherein the plurality of top structure securing portions 208 formed on one side wall of the enclosure body 200 are formed in the same manner as the top structure securing portions 206 formed on another side wall of the enclosure body 200

[0054] Each top structure securing portion 206, 208 may be formed in one or more of a plurality of shapes, sizes, and/or configurations so long as each top structure securing portion 206, 208 is able to cooperate and receive the securing portion 306, 308 of the top structure 300. For example, as illustrated in at least Figures 1A, IB, and 5-7, the top structure securing portion 206, 208 may be formed as an elongated horizontal slit 206, 208, opening 206, 208, or the like.

[0055] Alternatively or in addition, one or more of the top structure securing portions 206, 208 may be formed as a collection of shorter slits or openings, such as the top structure securing portions 206 illustrated in Figure 6.

[0056] Alternatively or in addition, one or more of the top structure securing portions 206, 208 may be formed as one or more protrusions, or the like. For example, FIGURE 3 illustrates the top structure securing portion 206 having a pair of protrusions 206 for receiving the securing portion 306, 308 of the top structure 300. As another example, FIGURE 4 illustrates the top structure securing portions 206, 208 each having a pair of protrusions 206, 208 for receiving the securing portions 306, 308 of the top structure 300.

[0057] Base structure (e.g. base structure 2501

[0058] In an example embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a base structure (e.g., base structure 250). The base structure 250 includes a top surface 252 and a bottom surface 254. The top surface 252 is opposite to the bottom surface 254 (e.g., faces in opposite directions). The base structure 250 may be formed as a bottom wall 250, or the like, of the apparatus 100 that is secured to the bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200.

[0059] For example, as illustrated in at least Figures 2C and 4, a portion (e.g., edge portions) of the top surface 252 of the base structure 250 may be secured to at least a portion of a most distal end of the bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200.

[0060] As another example, as illustrated in at least Figure 3, a portion (e.g., most distal ends) of the base structure 250 may be secured to at least a portion (e.g., in the bottom end 200b) of the interior surface 202 of the enclosure body 200.

[0061] The base structure 250 is configured to receive the excised specimen 10 when the excised specimen 10 is provided through the main opening 102. The top surface 252 of the base structure 250 may be formed in one or more of a plurality of shapes, sizes, and/or configurations. For example, some or all of the top surface 252 of the base structure 250 may be substantially flat or a 2-dimensional surface. Alternatively, one or more portions of the top surface 252 of the base structure 250 may have a non-flat shape, such as one or more concave and/or convex formations, one or more indentations, one or more holes/cavities, one or more protrusions, and/or one or more textures. It is recognized in the present disclosure that having such non-flat shapes formed in and/or on the top surface 252 of the base structure 250 enables the excised specimen 10 (when housed in the specimen chamber 220) to be fixed, held, and/or secured in position. In this regard, such non-flat shapes may also be formed in and/or on one or more other interior surfaces, including the interior surfaces 202 of the enclosure body 200 and/or the bottom surface 302 of the top structure 300.

[0062] As described in the present disclosure, the top surface 252 of the base structure 250, along with the bottom surface 302 of the top structure 300 (as illustrated in at least Figure 2A) and the interior surfaces 202 of the enclosure body 200 (as illustrated in at least Figure 2A), collectively form a specimen chamber 220 for receiving and housing an excised specimen 10; and a volume of such specimen chamber 220 may be selectively adjustable (e.g., by appropriately selecting one of the plurality of top structure securing portions 206, 208 to use in receiving the securing portions 306, 308 of the top structure 300).

[0063] In some example embodiments (not shown in the figures), a position of the base structure 250 may be selectively adjustable between the top end 200a and bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200, such as in a similar or same manner as the adjustable positioning of the top structure 300 relative to the enclosure body 200, as described in the present disclosure. For example, the selective adjustability of the position of the base structure 250 relative to the enclosure body 200 may be via a plurality of securing portions (not shown in the figures) on the enclosure body 200 similar to or the same as the top structure securing portions 206, 208 of the enclosure body 200; and via a plurality of corresponding securing portions (not shown in the figures) on the base structure 250 similar to or the same as the securing portions 306, 308 of the top structure 300. In some example embodiments, such selective adjustability of the position of the base structure 250 relative to the enclosure body 200 may be in addition to or in replacement of the selective adjustability of the position of the top structure 300 relative to the enclosure body 200.

[0064] Top structure (e.g. top structure 3001

[0065] In an example embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a top structure (e.g., top structure 300). The top structure 300 includes a top surface 304 and a bottom surface 302. The top surface 304 is opposite to the bottom surface 302 (e.g., faces in opposite directions). The top structure 300 also includes one or more securing portions 306, 308. The top structure 300 may be formed as or resemble a top wall 300, lid 300, or the like, of the apparatus 100. The top structure 300 may be selectively secured to and unsecured from the top end 200a of the enclosure body 200.

[0066] For example, as illustrated in at least Figures 1 A, 2A, 2C, 3, and 4, the top structure 300 may be secured to the enclosure body 200 by inserting, coupling, and/or securing one or more of the securing portions 306, 308 to corresponding one or more top structure securing portions 206, 208 of the enclosure body 200. More specifically, in example embodiments where the top structure securing portions 206, 208 of the enclosure body are formed as an opening, slit, or the like, the securing portions 306, 308 of the top structure 300 may be inserted into the top structure securing portions 206, 208. As another example, in example embodiments where the top structure securing portions 206, 208 are formed as protrusions, or the like, the securing portions 306, 308 may be provided between such protrusions.

[0067] The top structure 300 is configured to receive the excised specimen 10 when the excised specimen 10 is housed in the specimen chamber 220 and the top structure 300 is selectively adjusted in position (between the top end 200a and bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200) to match the size, shape, and/or orientation of the excised specimen 10. In example embodiments, a position of the top structure 300 is selectively adjustable between the top end 200a and bottom end 200b of the enclosure body 200 by selecting an appropriate corresponding top structure securing portion 206, 208 of the enclosure body 200 to receive the securing portions 306, 308.

[0068] For example, in situations where the excised specimen 10 has a relatively smaller shape, size, and/or vertical dimension (e.g., height) as compared to the apparatus 100 (or one or more aspects or elements of the apparatus 100), the position of the top structure 300 may be selectively adjusted relative to the enclosure body 200 by coupling or securing the securing portions 306, 308 of the top structure 300 with corresponding top structure securing portions 206, 208 that are more distal to (or further away from) the top end 200a of the enclosure body 200 (e.g., those that are at a distance d4 or d3 from the top end 200a of the enclosure body 200, as illustrated in Figure 1 A). In this example, the volume of the specimen chamber 220 is selectively reduced to more closely match the relatively smaller size, shape, and/or orientation of the excised specimen 10.

[0069] As another example, in situations where the excised specimen 10 has a relatively larger shape, size, and/or vertical dimension (e.g., height) as compared to the apparatus 100 (or one or more aspects or elements of the apparatus 100), the position of the top structure 300 may be selectively adjusted relative to the enclosure body 200 by coupling or securing the securing portions 306, 308 of the top structure 300 with corresponding top structure securing portions 206, 208 that are more proximal to (or closer to) the top end 200a of the enclosure body 200 (e.g., those that are at a distance dl or d2 from the top end 200a of the enclosure body 200, as illustrated in Figure 1A). In this example, the volume of the specimen chamber 220 is selectively increased to more closely match the relatively larger size, shape, and/or orientation of the excised specimen 10.

[0070] The bottom surface 302 of the top structure 300, which is the surface that receives and comes into contact with the excised specimen 10, may be formed in one or more of a plurality of shapes, sizes, and/or configurations. For example, some or all of the bottom surface 302 of the top structure 300 may be substantially flat or a 2-dimensional surface. Alternatively, one or more portions of the bottom surface 302 of the top structure 300 may have a non-flat shape, such as one or more concave and/or convex formations, one or more indentations, one or more holes/cavities, one or more protrusions, and/or one or more textures. It is recognized in the present disclosure that having such non-flat shapes formed in and/or on the bottom surface 302 of the top structure 300 enables the excised specimen 10 (when housed in the specimen chamber 220) to be fixed, held, and/or secured in position. In this regard, such non-flat shapes may also be formed in and/or on one or more other interior surfaces, including the interior surfaces 202 of the enclosure body 200 and/or the top surface 252 of the bottom structure 250.

[0071] As described in the present disclosure, the bottom surface 302 of the top structure 300, along with the top surface 252 of the bottom structure 250 (as illustrated in at least Figure 2A) and the interior surfaces 202 of the enclosure body 200 (as illustrated in at least Figure 2A), collectively form a specimen chamber 220 for receiving and housing an excised specimen 10; and a volume of such specimen chamber 220 is selectively adjustable (e.g., by appropriately selecting one of the plurality of top structure securing portions 206, 208 to use in receiving the securing portions 306, 308 of the top structure 300).

[0072] In an example embodiment, when the apparatus 100 is placed in an imaging area, the bottom surface 254 of the bottom structure 250 rests on the main surface of the imaging area. A radiographer can then perform a first X-ray imaging of the excised specimen from a first perspective (e.g., lateral view). The radiographer can further perform another X-ray imaging of the same excised specimen from another perspective (e.g., anterior-posterior view; perpendicular to the first perspective) by changing an orientation of the apparatus 100 so that the outer surface 204 of the enclosure body 200 rests on the main surface of the imaging area. In doing so, since the position of the top structure 300 relative to the enclosure body 200 and volume of the specimen chamber 200 is selectively adjustable (and the hookwire of the excised specimen 10 is secured via the hookwire opening 210) in such a way as to hold, fix, and/or secure the excised sample in position, accurate and consistent X-ray imaging of different orientations and perspectives of the excised specimen 10 can be achieved.

[0073] In an example embodiment, advanced 3D printing technologies may be used for printing the base structure, enclosure body, top structure of the apparatus. Conventional ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) or Polylactic Acid (PLA) polymers are sufficiently rigid. TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethane) may also be employed due to its high elasticity. Accordingly, the apparatus 100 may be fabricated to be relatively soft and deformable to adapt to the shape, size, and/or orientation of the excised specimen 10.

[0074] While various embodiments in accordance with the disclosed principles have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and are not limiting. Thus, the breadth and scope of the example embodiments described in the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the claims and their equivalents issuing from this disclosure. Furthermore, the above advantages and features are provided in described embodiments, but shall not limit the application of such issued claims to processes and structures accomplishing any or all of the above advantages.

[0075] Various terms used herein have special meanings within the present technical field. Whether a particular term should be construed as such a "term of art" depends on the context in which that term is used. Terms are to be construed in light of the context in which they are used in the present disclosure and as one of ordinary skill in the art would understand those terms in the disclosed context. Definitions provided herein are not exclusive of other meanings that might be imparted to those terms based on the disclosed context.

[0076] Words of comparison, measurement, and timing such as "at the time", "equivalent", "during", "complete", and the like should be understood to mean "substantially at the time", "substantially equivalent", "substantially during", "substantially complete", etc., where "substantially" means that such comparisons, measurements, and timings are practicable to accomplish the implicitly or expressly stated desired result. [0077] Additionally, the section headings and topic headings herein are provided for consistency with the suggestions under various patent regulations and practice, or otherwise to provide organizational cues. These headings shall not limit or characterize the embodiments set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. Specifically, a description of a technology in the "Background" is not to be construed as an admission that technology is prior art to any embodiments in this disclosure. Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to "invention" in the singular should not be used to argue that there is only a single point of novelty in this disclosure. Multiple inventions may be set forth according to the limitations of the claims issuing from this disclosure, and such claims accordingly define the invention(s), and their equivalents, that are protected thereby. In all instances, the scope of such claims shall be considered on their own merits in light of this disclosure, but should not be constrained by the headings herein.

Claims

Claims What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for housing a specimen excised via a hookwire localization procedure, the excised specimen having a hookwire provided therethrough, the apparatus comprising: a base structure, the base structure having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the base structure; an enclosure body having: an inner surface; an outer surface opposite to the inner surface of the enclosure body; a top end; a bottom end opposite to the top end of the enclosure body, at least a portion of the bottom end of the enclosure body secured to at least a portion of the base structure; a hookwire opening formed through the enclosure body, the hookwire opening configured to receive the hookwire of the excised specimen; and a plurality of top structure securing portions formed on the enclosure body between the top and bottom ends of the enclosure body, including a first top structure securing portion and a second top structure securing portion, the first top structure securing portion formed at a first distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body, the second top structure securing portion formed at a second distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body, the first distance greater than the second distance; and a top structure, the top structure having a top surface, bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the top structure, and a first securing portion, the top structure formed in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to at least one of the plurality of top structure securing portions, the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure are collectively configured to form a specimen chamber, the specimen chamber configured to receive and house the excised specimen; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the first top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a first volume; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the second top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a second volume, the first volume greater than the second volume.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the base structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top surface of the base structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the base structure is formed as a planar body; and/or at least a central region of the base structure is formed of one or more radiolucent and/or radio-transparent materials, the central region for use in receiving the excised specimen.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein one or more of the following apply: the top surface of the base structure includes one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness, the one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness of the top surface of the base structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber; and/or the top surface of the base structure is formed having a concave shape, the concave shape of the top surface of the base structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the enclosure body includes a front wall, the front wall including a front wall inner surface, front wall outer surface opposite to the front wall inner surface, a top end of the front wall, and a bottom end of the front wall opposite to the top end of the front wall; the enclosure body includes a rear wall opposite to the front wall, the rear wall including a rear wall inner surface, rear wall outer surface opposite to the rear wall inner surface, a top end of the rear wall, and a bottom end of the rear wall opposite to the top end of the rear wall; the enclosure body includes a left side wall, the left side wall including a left side wall inner surface, left side wall outer surface opposite to the left side wall inner surface, a top end of the left side wall, and a bottom end of the left side wall opposite to the top end of the left side wall; the enclosure body includes a right side wall opposite to the left side wall, the right side wall including a right side wall inner surface, right side wall outer surface opposite to the right side wall inner surface, a top end of the right side wall, and a bottom end of the right side wall opposite to the top end of the right side wall; the inner surface includes the front wall inner surface, rear wall inner surface, left side wall inner surface, and right side wall inner surface; the outer surface includes the front wall outer surface, rear wall outer surface, left side wall outer surface, and right side wall outer surface; the top end includes the top end of the front wall, top end of the rear wall, top end of the left side wall, and top end of the right side wall; and the bottom end includes the bottom end of the front wall, bottom end of the rear wall, bottom end of the left side wall, and bottom end of the right side wall.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein one of the following apply: the hookwire opening is formed between the front wall and the left side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed between the front wall and the right side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed between the rear wall and the left side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed between the rear wall and the right side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the front wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the rear wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the left side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the right side wall.

6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein one or more of the following apply: the plurality of top structure securing portions are formed on the left side wall, right side wall, front side wall, and/or rear side wall; and/or the first top structure securing portion and second top structure securing portion are formed on one of the front wall, rear wall, left side wall, or right side wall.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the top structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top surface of the top structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top structure is formed as a planar body; and/or at least a central region of the top structure is formed using radiolucent materials, the central region for use in receiving the excised specimen.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the top structure includes one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness, the one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness of the bottom surface of the top structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure and/or bottom surface of the top structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber; and/or the bottom surface of the top structure is formed having a concave shape, the concave shape of the bottom surface of the top structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure and/or bottom surface of the top structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the top structure further includes a second securing portion, the second securing portion of the top structure opposite to the first securing portion of the top structure; wherein the plurality of top structure securing portions further includes a third top structure securing portion and a fourth top structure securing portion, the third top structure securing portion opposite to the first top structure securing portion, the fourth top structure securing portion opposite to the second top structure securing portion; wherein the specimen chamber having the first volume is further formed by securing the second securing portion of the top structure to the third top structure securing portion; wherein the specimen chamber having the second volume is further formed by securing the second securing portion of the top structure to the fourth top structure securing portion.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein one or more of the following apply: the hookwire opening is formed through the enclosure body from the top end of the enclosure body towards the bottom end of the enclosure body; and/or the hookwire opening is a slit formed from the top end of the enclosure body towards the bottom end of the enclosure body.

11. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the apparatus is placed in an imaging area and orientated in such a way that the bottom surface of the base structure rests on a main surface of the imaging area, the apparatus is configured to enable a first imaging of the excised specimen in a direction parallel to a first plane formed by the base structure; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the apparatus is placed in the imaging area and orientated in such a way that the outer surface of the enclosure body rests on the main surface of the imaging area, the apparatus is configured to enable a second imaging of the excised specimen in a direction perpendicular to the first plane formed by the base structure.

12. An apparatus for housing a specimen excised via a hookwire localization procedure and enabling multi-planar imaging of the excised specimen when the apparatus housing the excised specimen is provided in an imaging area, the excised specimen having a hookwire provided therethrough, the apparatus comprising: a base structure, the base structure having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the base structure; an enclosure body, the enclosure body having: an inner surface; an outer surface opposite to the inner surface of the enclosure body; a top end; a bottom end opposite to the top end of the enclosure body, at least a portion of the bottom end of the enclosure body secured to at least a portion of the base structure; a hookwire opening formed through the enclosure body from the top end of the enclosure body towards the bottom end of the enclosure body, the hookwire opening configured to receive the hookwire of the excised specimen; and a top structure securing portion formed on the enclosure body between the top and bottom ends of the enclosure body; and a top structure, the top structure having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the top structure, and a first securing portion, the top structure formed in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the top structure securing portion of the enclosure body, the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure are collectively configurable to form a specimen chamber, the specimen chamber configured to receive and house the excised specimen; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the apparatus is placed in the imaging area and orientated in such a way that the bottom surface of the base structure rests on a main surface of the imaging area, the apparatus is configured to enable a first imaging of the excised specimen in a direction parallel to a first plane formed by the base structure; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the apparatus is placed in the imaging area and orientated in such a way that the outer surface of the enclosure body rests on the main surface of the imaging area, the apparatus is configured to enable a second imaging of the excised specimen in a direction perpendicular to the first plane formed by the base structure.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the apparatus further comprises one or more orientation marks, including a first orientation mark and a second orientation mark; wherein the first orientation mark is formed in such a way that the first imaging of the excised specimen includes the first orientation mark; wherein the second orientation mark is formed in such a way that the second imaging of the excised specimen includes the second orientation mark.

14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the base structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top surface of the base structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the base structure is formed as a planar body; and/or at least a central region of the base structure is formed of one or more radiolucent and/or radio-transparent materials, the central region for use in receiving the excised specimen.

15. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein one or more of the following apply: the top surface of the base structure includes one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness, the one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness of the top surface of the base structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber; and/or the top surface of the base structure is formed having a concave shape, the concave shape of the top surface of the base structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber.

16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein: the enclosure body includes a front wall, the front wall including a front wall inner surface, front wall outer surface opposite to the front wall inner surface, a top end of the front wall, and a bottom end of the front wall opposite to the top end of the front wall; the enclosure body includes a rear wall opposite to the front wall, the rear wall including a rear wall inner surface, rear wall outer surface opposite to the rear wall inner surface, a top end of the rear wall, and a bottom end of the rear wall opposite to the top end of the rear wall; the enclosure body includes a left side wall, the left side wall including a left side wall inner surface, left side wall outer surface opposite to the left side wall inner surface, a top end of the left side wall, and a bottom end of the left side wall opposite to the top end of the left side wall; the enclosure body includes a right side wall opposite to the left side wall, the right side wall including a right side wall inner surface, right side wall outer surface opposite to the right side wall inner surface, a top end of the right side wall, and a bottom end of the right side wall opposite to the top end of the right side wall; the inner surface includes the front wall inner surface, rear wall inner surface, left side wall inner surface, and right side wall inner surface; the outer surface includes the front wall outer surface, rear wall outer surface, left side wall outer surface, and right side wall outer surface; the top end includes the top end of the front wall, top end of the rear wall, top end of the left side wall, and top end of the right side wall; and the bottom end includes the bottom end of the front wall, bottom end of the rear wall, bottom end of the left side wall, and bottom end of the right side wall.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein one of the following apply: the hookwire opening is formed between the front wall and the left side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed between the front wall and the right side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed between the rear wall and the left side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed between the rear wall and the right side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the front wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the rear wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the left side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the right side wall.

18. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the top structure securing portion is formed on the left side wall, right side wall, front side wall, or rear side wall.

19. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the top structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top surface of the top structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top structure is formed as a planar body; and/or at least a central region of the top structure is formed using radiolucent materials, the central region for use in receiving the excised specimen.

20. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the top structure includes one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness, the one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness of the bottom surface of the top structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure and/or bottom surface of the top structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber; and/or the bottom surface of the top structure is formed having a concave shape, the concave shape of the bottom surface of the top structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure and/or bottom surface of the top structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber.

21. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the enclosure body further includes a second top structure securing portion formed on the enclosure body between the top and bottom ends of the enclosure body, the top structure securing portion formed at a first distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body, the second top structure securing portion formed at a second distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body, the first distance greater than the second distance; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a first volume; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the second top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a second volume, the first volume greater than the second volume.

22. An apparatus for housing a specimen excised via a hookwire localization procedure, the excised specimen having a hookwire provided therethrough, the apparatus comprising: a base structure, the base structure having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the base structure; an enclosure body, the enclosure body having: an inner surface; an outer surface opposite to the inner surface of the enclosure body; a top end; a bottom end opposite to the top end of the enclosure body, at least a portion of the bottom end of the enclosure body secured to at least a portion of the base structure; and a hookwire opening formed through the enclosure body from the top end of the enclosure body towards the bottom end of the enclosure body, the hookwire opening configured to receive the hookwire of the excised specimen; and a top structure, the top structure having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the top structure, the top structure formed in such a way that, when the top structure is secured to the enclosure body, the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure are collectively configurable to form a specimen chamber, the specimen chamber configured to receive and house the excised specimen; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that the excised specimen is secured in position when the hookwire opening receives the hookwire of the excised specimen and the top structure is secured to the enclosure body.

23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the base structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top surface of the base structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the base structure is formed as a planar body; and/or at least a central region of the base structure is formed of one or more radiolucent and/or radio-transparent materials, the central region for use in receiving the excised specimen.

24. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein one or more of the following apply: the top surface of the base structure includes one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness, the one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness of the top surface of the base structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber; and/or the top surface of the base structure is formed having a concave shape, the concave shape of the top surface of the base structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber.

25. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein: the enclosure body includes a front wall, the front wall including a front wall inner surface, front wall outer surface opposite to the front wall inner surface, a top end of the front wall, and a bottom end of the front wall opposite to the top end of the front wall; the enclosure body includes a rear wall opposite to the front wall, the rear wall including a rear wall inner surface, rear wall outer surface opposite to the rear wall inner surface, a top end of the rear wall, and a bottom end of the rear wall opposite to the top end of the rear wall; the enclosure body includes a left side wall, the left side wall including a left side wall inner surface, left side wall outer surface opposite to the left side wall inner surface, a top end of the left side wall, and a bottom end of the left side wall opposite to the top end of the left side wall; the enclosure body includes a right side wall opposite to the left side wall, the right side wall including a right side wall inner surface, right side wall outer surface opposite to the right side wall inner surface, a top end of the right side wall, and a bottom end of the right side wall opposite to the top end of the right side wall; the inner surface includes the front wall inner surface, rear wall inner surface, left side wall inner surface, and right side wall inner surface; the outer surface includes the front wall outer surface, rear wall outer surface, left side wall outer surface, and right side wall outer surface; the top end includes the top end of the front wall, top end of the rear wall, top end of the left side wall, and top end of the right side wall; and the bottom end includes the bottom end of the front wall, bottom end of the rear wall, bottom end of the left side wall, and bottom end of the right side wall.

26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein one of the following apply: the hookwire opening is formed between the front wall and the left side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed between the front wall and the right side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed between the rear wall and the left side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed between the rear wall and the right side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the front wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the rear wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the left side wall; or the hookwire opening is formed on the right side wall.

27. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the top structure securing portion is formed on the left side wall, right side wall, front side wall, or rear side wall.

28. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the top structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top surface of the top structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top structure is formed as a planar body; and/or at least a central region of the top structure is formed using radiolucent materials, the central region for use in receiving the excised specimen.

29. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the top structure includes one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness, the one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness of the bottom surface of the top structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure and/or bottom surface of the top structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber; and/or the bottom surface of the top structure is formed having a concave shape, the concave shape of the bottom surface of the top structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure and/or bottom surface of the top structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber.

30. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the enclosure body further includes a first top structure securing portion and a second top structure securing portion formed on the enclosure body between the top and bottom ends of the enclosure body, the first top structure securing portion formed at a first distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body, the second top structure securing portion formed at a second distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body, the first distance greater than the second distance; wherein the top structure further includes a first securing portion, the first securing portion of the top structure is formed in such a way that when the first securing portion is secured to the first top structure securing portion or the second top structure securing portion of the enclosure body, the top structure is secured to the enclosure body; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the first top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a first volume; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the second top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a second volume, the first volume greater than the second volume.

31. An apparatus for housing a specimen excised via a hookwire localization procedure, the excised specimen having a hookwire provided therethrough, the apparatus comprising: a base structure, the base structure having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the base structure; an enclosure body, the enclosure body having: an inner surface; an outer surface opposite to the inner surface of the enclosure body; a top end; a bottom end opposite to the top end of the enclosure body, at least a portion of the bottom end of the enclosure body secured to at least a portion of the base structure; and a plurality of top structure securing portions formed on the enclosure body between the top and bottom ends of the enclosure body, including a first top structure securing portion and a second top structure securing portion, the first top structure securing portion formed at a first distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body, the second top structure securing portion formed at a second distance from the bottom end of the enclosure body, the first distance greater than the second distance; and a top structure, the top structure having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite to the top surface of the top structure, and a first securing portion, the top structure formed in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to at least one of the plurality of top structure securing portions, the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure are collectively configurable to form a specimen chamber, the specimen chamber configured to receive and house the excised specimen; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the first top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a first volume; wherein the apparatus is configured in such a way that, when the first securing portion of the top structure is secured to the second top structure securing portion, the specimen chamber formed by the bottom surface of the top structure, the inner surface of the enclosure body, and the top surface of the base structure has a second volume, the first volume greater than the second volume.

32. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the base structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top surface of the base structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the base structure is formed as a planar body; and/or at least a central region of the base structure is formed of one or more radiolucent and/or radio-transparent materials, the central region for use in receiving the excised specimen.

33. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein one or more of the following apply: the top surface of the base structure includes one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness, the one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness of the top surface of the base structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber; and/or the top surface of the base structure is formed having a concave shape, the concave shape of the top surface of the base structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber.

34. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein: the enclosure body includes a front wall, the front wall including a front wall inner surface, front wall outer surface opposite to the front wall inner surface, a top end of the front wall, and a bottom end of the front wall opposite to the top end of the front wall; the enclosure body includes a rear wall opposite to the front wall, the rear wall including a rear wall inner surface, rear wall outer surface opposite to the rear wall inner surface, a top end of the rear wall, and a bottom end of the rear wall opposite to the top end of the rear wall; the enclosure body includes a left side wall, the left side wall including a left side wall inner surface, left side wall outer surface opposite to the left side wall inner surface, a top end of the left side wall, and a bottom end of the left side wall opposite to the top end of the left side wall; the enclosure body includes a right side wall opposite to the left side wall, the right side wall including a right side wall inner surface, right side wall outer surface opposite to the right side wall inner surface, a top end of the right side wall, and a bottom end of the right side wall opposite to the top end of the right side wall; the inner surface includes the front wall inner surface, rear wall inner surface, left side wall inner surface, and right side wall inner surface; the outer surface includes the front wall outer surface, rear wall outer surface, left side wall outer surface, and right side wall outer surface; the top end includes the top end of the front wall, top end of the rear wall, top end of the left side wall, and top end of the right side wall; and the bottom end includes the bottom end of the front wall, bottom end of the rear wall, bottom end of the left side wall, and bottom end of the right side wall.

35. The apparatus of claim 34, wherein one or more of the following apply: the plurality of top structure securing portions are formed on the left side wall, right side wall, front side wall, and/or rear side wall; and/or the first top structure securing portion and second top structure securing portion are formed on one of the front wall, rear wall, left side wall, or right side wall.

36. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the top structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top surface of the top structure is formed as a flat surface; and/or the top structure is formed as a planar body; and/or at least a central region of the top structure is formed of radiolucent materials, the central region for use in receiving the excised specimen.

37. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein one or more of the following apply: the bottom surface of the top structure includes one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness, the one or more surface patterns, protrusions, and/or roughness of the bottom surface of the top structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure and/or bottom surface of the top structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber; and/or the bottom surface of the top structure is formed having a concave shape, the concave shape of the bottom surface of the top structure configured to reduce a lateral movement of the excised specimen along the top surface of the base structure and/or bottom surface of the top structure when the excised specimen is placed in the specimen chamber.

38. The apparatus of claim 31 , wherein the top structure further includes a second securing portion, the second securing portion of the top structure opposite to the first securing portion of the top structure; wherein the plurality of top structure securing portions further includes a third top structure securing portion and a fourth top structure securing portion, the third top structure securing portion opposite to the first top structure securing portion, the fourth top structure securing portion opposite to the second top structure securing portion; wherein the specimen chamber having the first volume is further formed by securing the second securing portion of the top structure to the third top structure securing portion; wherein the specimen chamber having the second volume is further formed by securing the second securing portion of the top structure to the fourth top structure securing portion.