Breast health

HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital proudly supports women in every stage of life.

We offer comprehensive breast health services, from preventive and diagnostic screenings to breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, in a convenient and compassionate setting.

If breast cancer is detected, our highly trained and dedicated care team works closely with you to plan and execute the best course of treatment. This team consists of surgeons, radiologists and nurses — and they're all here to support you.

The American Cancer Society, American College of Radiology and Society for Breast Imaging recommend annual screening mammograms beginning at 40 years old for women who have an average risk of developing breast cancer. Talking to your doctor about your risk factors and when you should begin annual screenings is important.

We offer access to a wide range of breast screening and diagnostic services as a key component of our comprehensive diagnostic imaging program, including:

Screening mammography: Screening mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast cancer because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them. Research has shown that annual mammograms lead to early detection of breast cancers, when they are most curable.

Diagnostic mammography: Diagnostic mammography is used to evaluate abnormal clinical findings, such as a breast lump that has been found by you or your doctor. A diagnostic mammogram may also be performed after an abnormal screening mammogram to evaluate areas of concern on the screening exam.

Digital 3D mammography (tomosynthesis): Digital breast tomosynthesis, also known as 3D mammography, takes several X-rays at different angles to create a 3D image of the breast. This technique has the potential to significantly increase the cancer detection rate in women with dense breast tissue.

Stereotactic-guided breast biopsy: Stereotactic breast biopsy uses mammography-guided imaging to remove a tissue sample for examination under a microscope. It is less invasive than a surgical biopsy, leaves little to no scarring and can be an excellent way to evaluate calcium deposits or tiny masses that are not visible on an ultrasound.

Ultrasound-guided biopsy: A biopsy is the removal of a sample of tissue or cells. In an ultrasound-guided biopsy, a radiologist uses ultrasound imaging to locate the lump or abnormality being biopsied. The sample is then examined under a microscope to aid in diagnosis.

To schedule a mammogram, call our scheduling team at (772) XXX-XXXX.

Our Dense Breast Program identifies women with dense breast tissue, which can only be determined by mammograms. Because dense breast tissue can make some cancers difficult to find, the Dense Breast Program offers specialized breast imaging, including:

• Automated breast ultrasound system
• Breast MRI
• Digital 3D mammography
• Image-guided breast biopsy
• Molecular breast imaging

This program is designed around advanced technology to improve breast cancer detection. You will be informed of your level of breast density at the time you receive your result and are provided a recommended surveillance plan.

To learn more or ask as other questions you may have, talk to a breast health specialist by calling (772) XXX-XXXX.

Depending on the type of breast imaging procedure you are receiving, there are a number of suggested guidelines to follow to maximize comfort and limit wait times.

You can talk to your healthcare provider about additional instructions. However, the following are general guidelines to help you prepare for your exam:

• Do not wear any lotions, deodorants or powders.
• Wear a two-piece outfit.
• Arrive 10 to 15 minutes prior to your appointment time.
• Bring photo ID and insurance cards.
• Bring prior imaging results if you have them at home.

When coming in for a breast biopsy, we suggest wearing a comfortable bra and speaking with your doctor before the procedure. Ask them about medications, including over-the-counter drugs, to take or avoid before your biopsy.