Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital breast surgical oncologists and radiologists first in Houston to use SAVI SCOUT radar localization system

The new SAVI SCOUT^® radar localization system is an FDA-approved alternative to wire localization used during breast conservation surgeries. SCOUT is a device placed by radiologists and used by surgeons to precisely locate and direct the removal of a tumor during lumpectomy or excisional biopsy.

"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 Ainel Sewell, M.D., breast imaging radiologist and medical director of Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Willowbrook. "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 on the day of surgery."

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

"The ability to precisely locate and direct the removal of a tumor during a lumpectomy or surgical biopsy procedure helps surgeons increase the probability of complete cancer removal, reduce the likelihood of needing follow-up surgeries and obtain an excellent cosmetic outcome," said Loren Rourke, MD, FACS, breast surgical oncologist and director of Houston Methodist Regional Breast Program. "The Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Willowbrook offers a full spectrum of imaging services in a comprehensive breast care program model, including all digital mammography, 3-D imaging (tomosynthesis), breast ultrasound, breast MRI, imaged guided needle biopsies, and pre-surgical localization, all in one location.

"We're proud to be the first hospital in Houston to use the new SCOUT breast localization and surgical guidance system during breast conservation surgeries," said Sewell. "As research and technology advances, Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital is committed to adopting the safest and most progressive treatment options for our patients."

One out of eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Seventy five percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease and are not considered high-risk.

Breast health begins with monthly self-exams beginning at age 20. Healthy women ages 40 and older should undergo annual mammograms, screening for early signs of breast cancer.

For more information about our services or to schedule a mammogram online visit houstonmethodist.org/willowbrook or call 281.737.PINK (7465).

About Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital

Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital is a 312 bed, not-for-profit, faith-based hospital, which is part of Houston Methodist. The hospital has expanded in Northwest Houston to serve the comprehensive health care needs of the growing community.

Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital has been named a Magnet recognized health care facility by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program^®.

Houston Methodist Willowbrook is ranked No. 8 in the Houston metro area and No. 19 in Texas by U.S. News & World Report as a "Best Hospital" in 2016. 

Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital specializes in cardiology and cardiovascular services, neurology, neurosurgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, and comprehensive cancer services. Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital has a Breast Care Center, Cancer Center, Imaging Center, Infusion Center Sleep Center, Surgical Weight Loss Center and operates the largest Childbirth Center in the Greater Northwest Houston area.

For more information on the comprehensive services available at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital and to learn about upcoming events, please visit houstonmethodist.org/willowbrook. To schedule an appointment or find a physician, call 281.737.2500.

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SOURCE Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital