A lumpectomy with SCOUT localisation is a breast-conserving operation used to remove a breast cancer or abnormal area while preserving the rest of the breast. A small reflector (called a SCOUT) is placed in the breast before surgery to guide the surgeon precisely to the lesion using radar technology. This allows accurate tumour removal, less tissue loss, and better cosmetic results — without the discomfort of a wire.

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What is a Lumpectomy with SCOUT Localisation?

 

A lumpectomy removes the breast cancer and a small margin of healthy tissue around it to ensure complete removal. When the lump cannot be felt, SCOUT localisation helps the surgeon find it accurately during surgery.

 

The SCOUT system uses a tiny reflector, about the size of a grain of rice, inserted into the tumour or biopsy site under ultrasound or mammogram guidance before surgery. The reflector emits a radar signal that can be detected in the operating theatre, allowing precise guidance to the lesion.

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Before the Procedure

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• The SCOUT reflector is inserted under local anaesthetic by a radiologist, usually a few days or weeks before your operation.

• You can go home soon after the reflector is placed.

• On the day of surgery, please bring:

  • Your breast imaging and reports (if performed outside the hospital).

  • You will wear your surgical bra immediately after surgery for support and comfort.

• You’ll arrive fasting as instructed and will meet your surgical and anaesthetic team before going to theatre.

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During the Procedure

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• Anaesthesia:

You’ll receive a general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep and feel no pain during the operation.

• Preparation:

The breast and surrounding skin are cleaned and prepared in a sterile manner. You’ll be comfortably positioned for surgery.

• Localisation:

The surgeon uses a SCOUT detector to locate the reflector and plan a small, precise incision for best access and cosmetic outcome.

• Excision:

The tumour and a small rim of healthy tissue are removed using the SCOUT system for guidance.

• Specimen X-ray:

The removed tissue is X-rayed to confirm that the reflector, biopsy clip, and target lesion have all been excised.

• Closure:

The cavity is closed with fine dissolvable sutures, and the skin is sealed with surgical glue or adhesive strips. The scar is usually small and placed along a natural skin line or hideen location

• Duration:

The operation usually takes 45–60 minutes. If a sentinel lymph node biopsy is required, it will be performed during the same procedure.

 

After the Procedure

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• You’ll wake up in the recovery area and be observed until you’re fully alert.

• Most patients go home the same day once they have eaten, walked, and their pain is controlled.

• You’ll be fitted with your surgical bra before leaving the operating theatre. This provides gentle compression, reduces swelling, and should be worn day and night for at least two weeks, removing only for showering.

• You may experience mild bruising, tightness, or discomfort for a few days, which can be managed with simple pain relief.

• A waterproof dressing will cover your wound, and you can shower from the day after surgery.

• Stitches are dissolvable and do not need to be removed.

• You can resume gentle daily activities as tolerated.

• Driving is allowed after your first postoperative review, once arm movement is comfortable and you are no longer taking strong pain medication.

 

Your pathology results will usually be available within 7–10 days and will be discussed at your follow-up appointment.

Possible Risks and Side Effects

 

Although lumpectomy with SCOUT localisation is a safe and well-tolerated procedure, potential risks include:

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• Bleeding or haematoma

• Infection

• Fluid collection (seroma)

• Numbness or altered breast sensation

• Change in breast shape or firmness

• Rarely, further surgery if margins are not clear

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Benefits of SCOUT Localisation

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• No external wire or same-day radiology procedure

• Greater comfort and flexibility in scheduling

• Precise tumour removal with smaller incisions

• Better cosmetic results and less anxiety

• Excellent recovery and safety record

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Key Points

• Breast-conserving operation using radar-guided localisation for precision

• Surgical bra required — worn immediately after surgery and continuously for two weeks

• You can shower from day one after surgery

• Driving is permitted after your first follow-up visit

• Day surgery with quick recovery, minimal scarring, and excellent cosmetic outcomes