Savi Scout

New Technology Improves Surgical Experience for Breast Cancer Patients

Surgeons and radiologists among first in region to use the SAVI SCOUT radar localization system.

Hilton Head Hospital, a division of Hilton Head Regional Healthcare, continues to demonstrate its commitment to offering advanced treatment options to patients with breast cancer by becoming the first hospital in the region to use the new SAVI SCOUT ^® radar localization system during breast conservation surgeries. An alternative to wire localization, SCOUT® is an FDA-cleared device used by surgeons and radiologists that allows them to locate and direct the removal of a tumor during a lumpectomy or surgical biopsy procedure.

“Breast cancer surgery can be physically and emotionally distressing for women, and we strive to find ways to create a better experience and better outcomes for our patients,” says Dr. Rochelle Ringer, Hilton Head Hospital Breast Health Center Medical Director. “SCOUT helps resolve one of the most difficult aspects of breast conservation surgery by eliminating the need to place a wire inside breast tissue to locate a tumor.”

SCOUT is Designed to works with Accuracy in Lumpectomy and Excisional Biopsy

SCOUT uses non-radioactive, radar technology to provide real-time surgical guidance during breast surgery. Rather than placing a wire immediate before surgery, a SCOUT reflector is placed in the target tissue up to 30 days prior to surgery. During surgery, the SCOUT guide is designed to detect the location of the reflector ¾ and the tumor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SAVI SCOUT ® radar localization system?

The SCOUT ^®radar localization system is designed for use by surgeons and radiologists to locate and guide the removal of a tumor during a lumpectomy or surgical biopsy procedure.

How does SCOUT work?

The SCOUT system features a-reflector that is placed at the tumor site up to 30 days before a lumpectomy or surgical biopsy. During the procedure, the surgeon scans the breast using the SCOUT guide, which emits infrared light and a radar signal to detect the location of the reflector. Real-time audible and visual indicators assist the surgeon in accurately locating the reflector, along with the target tissue. This technology is designed to allow the surgeon to plan a surgical approach that may result in a better cosmetic outcome.

When do surgeons use the SCOUT radar localization system?

SCOUT is designed for use with breast lumpectomy or excisional biopsy procedures in when the tumor is not palpable, i.e., able to be felt by the hand.

Is the SCOUT radar localization system FDA-cleared?

Yes.

Why is precise tumor localization so important?

The goal of breast-conserving surgery is to remove all detectable cancer cells. Precision in locating a tumor may increase the probability of complete cancer removal, which can reduce a woman’s chances of needing a second surgery and help breast surgeons and other breast care specialists reduce re-excision rates. If tumors are located accurately the first time, patients are likely to receive additional critical treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, faster.

Is it necessary to use wire localization in addition to SCOUT?

No. SCOUT is an alternative to wire localization, and therefore eliminates the drawbacks of wire localization.

How does SCOUT compare to wire localization?

SCOUT was developed to make breast cancer surgery easier for women and more efficient for the healthcare system. For example, a radiologist can place the SCOUT reflector in the target tissue up to 30 days before surgery, effectively decoupling the radiology and surgical schedules. This important benefit has the potential to reduce surgical delays and optimize surgical planning and may result in more patients receiving care faster.