SAVI SCOUT improves breast surgery options

Indiana University Health Arnett is the first hospital in the area to use the SAVI SCOUT® radar localization system to precisely locate and guide the removal of targeted tissue during a lumpectomy or surgical biopsy procedure.

“We are very excited about the acquisition of the SAVI SCOUT® surgical guidance system. By adopting this innovative wire-free localization technology, we are working to reduce stress for women who are going through one of the most difficult times in their lives,” explained Luke Gerges, DO, radiologist at IU Health Arnett. “The SAVI SCOUT system is used before a patient’s breast surgery and eliminates needle localizations on the day of surgery. The system features a safe, non-radioactive radar to detect a reflector that is placed at the tumor site at any time during the continuum of care. During surgery, the radar is used to detect the location of the reflector within the breast, allowing the surgeon to plan the best path to the tumor.”

The ability to precisely locate a tumor enables the surgeon complete cancer removal and reduces the likelihood of needing follow-up surgeries – a huge advancement for breast cancer patients. In addition, the ability to strategically plan the incision may result in less tissue being removed during surgery and conserving breast tissue.

The SAVI SCOUT® surgical guidance system uses electromagnetic wave technology to provide precise, accurate real-time surgical guidance during breast surgery. An alternative to wire localization, SCOUT features a reflector that is placed at the tumor site prior to surgery. During the procedure, the surgeon uses the SCOUT hand piece, which emits infrared light and electromagnetic waves, to detect the location of the reflector and plan the surgical incision. The SCOUT surgical guidance system uses real-time audible and visual indicators to guide the surgeon to localize and remove the reflector along with the surrounding breast tissue.

“The SAVI SCOUT® system is exciting technology that replaces the wire localization process which will improve our patients’ experience and comfort,” said Sidney Bruce, MD, general surgeon at IU Health Arnett. “The benefits include scheduling flexibility, reduced wait times on the day of surgery and less stress and anxiety for the patient. In addition, studies have shown the SAVI SCOUT® can reduce operating time and improve surgical margins due to precision in identifying the area of concern.”