Health and Fitness : Mercy Medical 1st in Iowa to use SCOUT MD™ technology for breast cancer surgery

Mercy Medical Center and Hall-Perrine Cancer Center have become the first in Iowa to perform breast cancer surgery using SCOUT MD™, an advanced, radar-based guidance system that improves surgical precision and patient comfort. The first procedure was performed last week by surgical oncologist Dr. Vincent Reid, marking a significant advancement in Mercy’s breast cancer program and reinforcing its commitment to bringing innovative, patient-centered technology to the community.

Breast-conserving surgery often requires precise localization of tumors that are difficult to detect. SCOUT MD provides a wire-free alternative by placing tiny reflectors before surgery, enabling surgeons to accurately locate tumors, map margins in real time, and preserve healthy tissue, reducing the need for additional procedures. Its four distinct reflector shapes allow for precise margin mapping and multiple lesion localization, offering greater flexibility and accuracy in complex cases.

On the same day that Mercy introduced SCOUT MD in Iowa, Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in Tampa, Fla., also performed breast cancer surgery using this technology. Together, the two organizations became the first in the nation to utilize SCOUT MD, underscoring a shared commitment to advancing cancer care through innovation.

“Being the first hospital in Iowa to use SCOUT MD reflects our dedication to advancing breast cancer care through innovation,” Dr. Reid said. “These technologies help us provide the best possible outcomes while improving the overall experience for our patients.”

Mercy first introduced Iowa to Savi SCOUT in 2018, Merit Medical’s original platform. Dr. Vincent Reid partnered with Merit on early cases to refine the experience, and his recent procedures mark the launch of the updated platform at Mercy. Additionally, last month, Dr. Reid became the first surgeon in the world to use MarginProbe™2, a device that helps confirm clear margins during breast cancer surgery, further reducing the likelihood of additional procedures.

For more information about breast cancer care at Mercy, visit www.hallperrinecancercenter.org.