Monday Lunch Live
13 October 2025 (Video recording below)
Time for the (hook)wire to retire?
Dr Susan Bell discusses different novel wire-free technologies and the benefits of introducing the SCOUT localisation system, sharing her experience at Ipswich hospital in Queensland. Get a sneak peek on the current use of wire-free devices by breast surgeons in Australia and New Zealand and the barriers to embracing new technology.
The SCOUT localisation system is a new technology designed to help locate non palpable breast cancers. Around 30-40 per cent of breast cancers are found through screening, making them very small and undetectable by touch. During surgery, accurately locating these cancers is crucial.
Traditionally, a wire localisation method from the 1970s is used, involving a radiologist inserting a fine wire with a hook into the breast to mark the tumour. However, this wire sticks out of the skin, causing discomfort for the patient and adding complexity to scheduling as it must be inserted on the day of surgery.
The SCOUT system, on the other hand, uses a tiny radar-based reflector that is placed in the breast where the tumour is located. This can be done days or even months before surgery. During the operation, the reflector sends a signal to a console, guiding surgeons to the tumour, making the process more comfortable for the patient and more efficient for the surgical team.
With greater precision, surgeons are able to remove cancerous tissue with a lower likelihood of requiring a second surgery. Plus, it allows for the conservation of more healthy tissue, contributing to improved cosmetic results.
Chair
A/Prof Simon Tsao
Clinical Associate Professor
Breast (Oncoplasty), Endocrine and General Surgeon
Austin Health; Warringal, Epworth and Western Private Hospitals
Speaker
Dr Susan Bell
Breast, Endocrine and General Surgeon
Ipswich Hospital, QLD
Dr Susan Bell is a general, breast and endocrine surgeon with a special interest in oncoplastic breast surgery. Originally from the Netherlands, Dr Bell relocated to Australia in 2006 and completed her General Surgical training program in Queensland.
During her surgical training years, Dr Bell developed an interest in breast and endocrine surgery and pursued a further two years post-fellowship training with BreastSurgANZ, gaining additional interstate experience in oncoplastic breast surgery as well as endocrine surgery.
Since 2018, Dr Bell has worked as a staff specialist at Ipswich Hospital, Queensland, and has subsequently established a thriving private practice. She is also Senior Lecturer at the University of Queensland, where she fulfils her passion in teaching medical students. She holds an appointment at BreastScreen QLD and is a senior instructor on the ASSET (surgical skills) course for aspiring surgical trainees.
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