Breast health

Imaging options for women coming to the Breast Care Center include:

• 3D mammography technology for screenings and diagnostic testing
• Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Breast ultrasounds
• Digital diagnostic mammograms
• Digital screening mammograms
• Sentinel node imaging (evaluates the lymph nodes)

In addition to advanced imaging technology, we use computer-aided detection as an extra layer of defense in identifying breast cancer. After your imaging specialist reads your results, computer-aided detection may be used to find any small abnormalities warranting a second look.

When to get a breast mammogram

Screening mammograms are the most common type of breast imaging performed to screen for breast cancer. However, mammograms are often supplemented by additional breast imaging exams to ensure every patient receives the thorough screening they need. This is particularly important for women with dense breast tissue, which can make mammograms more difficult to read.

If an abnormality is found on an imaging exam, we can perform additional tests and biopsies, if needed. Not every abnormality found on a mammogram is related to breast cancer, but a breast biopsy will help us make an accurate diagnosis. Our biopsy services include:

• MRI-guided breast biopsies
• Stereotactic breast biopsies
• Ultrasound-guided breast biopsies

Our doctors also offer preoperative needle localization procedures to precisely locate breast abnormalities before breast surgery. This helps with presurgical planning and allows our breast surgeons to quickly locate the targeted breast area during surgery.

If a breast cancer diagnosis is confirmed, our staff can easily connect you with our hospital's oncology services to form a plan of treatment and care.

Breast MRI risk assessment for breast cancer

In accordance with guidelines provided by the American Cancer Society (ACS), we perform screening breast MRIs for breast cancer risk assessments. Women with a strong family history of breast cancer or other related risk factors may desire a risk assessment. If you have a lifetime breast cancer risk of 20 percent or more, a screening MRI may be beneficial to your long-term health.

Patients who choose our hospital for breast imaging gain access to a facility that:

• Accepts all major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid
• Has been certified by the American College of Radiology as a Mammography Accredited Facility
• Offers online preregistration and online appointment requests for screening mammograms
• Provides screening mammograms and more advanced forms of breast imaging