Mercy introduces new technology for breast cancer surgery

Mercy Medical Center is pleased to announce a first for the Cedar Rapids community with the introduction of SAVI SCOUT® breast localization and  surgical guidance system for breast cancer surgery.  Oncology surgeon Dr. Vincent Reid performed the community’s first surgery utilizing the new technology on April 27.   

An alternative to wire localization, SAVI SCOUT is an FDA-cleared device used by surgeons and radiologists to precisely 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,” said Dr. Reid. “SAVI SCOUT resolves 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.”

SAVI SCOUT uses non-radioactive, radar technology to provide real-time surgical guidance during breast surgery. Rather than placing a wire immediately before surgery, a reflector is placed in the target tissue up to seven days prior to surgery. During surgery, the technology accurately detects the location of the reflector − and the tumor.

The new technology also allows for the incision to be more strategically placed by breast surgeons, and helps reduce the discomfort associated with needle localization lumpectomy, resulting in better cosmetic outcomes.

Mercy is the first hospital in Iowa to offer this technology as a standard of care for breast cancer surgery patients, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to offering the most advanced treatment options available for breast cancer patients.