Breast health

Many of our breast imaging services, including mammography and breast ultrasound, have been accredited by the American College of Radiology. This recognition reflects our commitment to providing high-quality breast imaging and diagnostic services to our patients.

If you would like to schedule a mammogram or other breast exam, please call our central scheduling line at (800) 617-7089.

Digital mammography is an excellent breast cancer screening tool for many women.

Benefits of digital mammography (compared to traditional film mammograms) include:

• Ability to magnify images to better visualize calcifications
• Can be stored permanently, with the ability to print on CD
• Faster process, which means faster appointments
• High-quality images can be enhanced for further evaluation, making it easier to differentiate cancerous tissue from healthy tissue
• Ideal in detecting breast abnormalities in women 50 years old and younger or women with dense breast tissue, who are often at higher risk for breast cancer
• Uses 60 percent less radiation than film images

A breast ultrasound examines a specific area identified from a mammogram or a lump discovered by the patient. This exam can determine the difference between a cystic (fluid-filled) or solid mass.

Breast ultrasounds may be used in conjunction with a mammogram. Due to their limited scope, a breast ultrasound cannot be used as a replacement for a mammogram.

An MRI uses a large magnet, radio waves and a computer to produce 2D and 3D pictures of the inside of the body. Breast MRI supplements mammography to detect breast cancer and other abnormalities of the breast. It can also detect lesions, which may be missed by mammography.

A biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove a sample of abnormal tissue to detect issues or cancer. We perform two types of biopsies at the Breast Care Center:

• Stereotactic biopsy
• Ultrasound core biopsy

If diagnostic imaging shows a need for biopsy, we will assist you in making an appointment with one of our breast surgeons. These surgical specialists are committed to seeing patients of our breast center within 48 hours of receiving an appointment request.

Osteoporosis is a disease which depletes the minerals from bones, making them brittle, weak and easy to break. Subtle changes in bone mineral density can be easily detected with bone densitometry, or a bone density scan. During a bone density screening, low dose X-rays are used to produce a computerized scan. The scan is quick, easy and painless.

Bone density screening is important as women can develop a higher risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures after breast cancer treatment. This is because breast cancer treatment can cause lower levels of estrogen, which helps protect bones. Additionally, as women age, their estrogen production slows causing bones to become brittle.

That's why we incorporate bone scans into our breast health care. Using bone density testing, we can detect signs of osteoporosis and low bone density early and create a care plan to preserve your bone health.

According to the American Cancer Society, women between 40 and 44 years old should have the option of beginning annual mammogram screenings.

Women who have a higher risk for developing breast cancer may need to begin screening sooner and receive supplemental screenings. It's important to talk to your healthcare provider about the right screening method and schedule for you.

Breast cancer treatment

We understand a breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, perhaps even devastating. That's why, if breast cancer is detected, we will be by your side to support you and your family every step of the way.

Through our hospital's oncology program, we offer comprehensive cancer care, including advanced treatments and compassionate support services. Our highly trained team of oncologists, surgeons and breast cancer specialists work together to create a treatment plan tailored to your personal needs.

Breast cancer survivors support group

Our breast cancer survivors support group, called "Laughter, Life and Lovely Ladies" meets monthly at our hospital. During our time together, people share their experience with breast cancer, treatment and more.

Meetings take place every fourth Tuesday of each month at 5:30pm in the Breast Care Center. If you would like to attend, please call (727) 588-5291.