The breast imaging center and breast surgery program at UR Medicine Thompson Health are among the first in the region to offer Savi Scout radar localization technology to treat women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer.
The technology makes lumpectomies easier for both patients and their surgeons by pinpointing tumors before surgery. Surgeons are able to go directly to the abnormality during surgery and then more precisely and effectively remove the entire tumor. This can help to: limit the amount of healthy breast tissue removed, decrease the amount of time spent in the hospital, reduce the need for a second surgery and reduce discomfort and anxiety
Traditional wire localization of a tumor involves a wire sticking out of the breast, often for several hours prior to surgery. The surgeon then follows the wire and removes the tumor. In some cases, wires can move away from the tumor, making removal more difficult and sometimes necessitating a second surgery.
Instead of wires, Savi Scout uses a reflector that is approximately the size of a grain of rice. It can be placed in the tumor up to 30 days prior to surgery. It is not visible externally, and placement does not restrict movement. The technology then guides the surgeon to the precise site of the tumor, increasing the likelihood of complete tumor removal. In addition, making a smaller incision and limiting the removal of healthy breast tissue can result in optimal cosmetic results.