A Savi seed, more accurately referred to as a SAVI SCOUT, is a tiny metallic reflector used in breast cancer procedures. It's not an actual seed but rather a medical device.
SAVI SCOUT: A Detailed Look
The SAVI SCOUT is used to help surgeons locate the precise area within the breast tissue that needs to be removed during a biopsy or lumpectomy. Here’s a more comprehensive view:
Key Features:
- Size: It's about the size of a grain of rice.
- Material: It is made of a metallic material.
- Visibility: It is not visible from the outside of the body once placed.
- Sensation: Patients generally do not feel it after it has been inserted.
How it Works:
The SAVI SCOUT is placed in the breast tissue using imaging guidance (like ultrasound or mammography) to pinpoint the exact location of the targeted tissue that will be removed. During surgery, the surgeon uses a special tool that detects the metallic reflector, thereby guiding them precisely to the location that needs surgical attention.
Advantages of Using SAVI SCOUT:
- Precision: It allows for extremely precise removal of tissue.
- Comfort: Because it is small and not felt, it adds minimal discomfort to the patient.
- Convenience: It can be placed days before the surgery date allowing for planning flexibility for the patient and the surgeon.
Summary Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | SAVI SCOUT (Not an actual seed) |
| Size | Approximately the size of a grain of rice |
| Material | Metallic reflector |
| Visibility | Not visible from outside the body |
| Sensation | Not felt by the patient after placement |
| Function | Guides surgeons to the precise location in the breast for surgical removal |
In conclusion, while the term 'savi seed' is commonly associated with the SAVI SCOUT, it is essential to understand that it's not a seed but a small metallic reflector employed in breast surgery procedures for accurate tissue removal.
