Breast Imaging and Procedures

Breast cancer is much more treatable when detected in its early stages. Mammograms, a set of breast images taken with low dose X-rays, are effective routine screening tests that have been proven to find breast cancer early. For women with an average risk for developing breast cancer, a mammogram is the best breast cancer screening test available.

We offer state-of-the-art digital mammography equipment, including 3-D mammography, an innovative screening and diagnostic breast imaging tool that improves the early detection of breast cancer.

A routine screening mammogram is taken on a regular basis, usually annually, to screen for changes in the breast. Several images of each breast are taken, from the top facing down and from the side.

A diagnostic mammogram is taken when an area of concern has been found in the breast. Though similar to a screening mammogram, diagnostic imaging usually includes extra breast images and additional manipulating of the breast tissue in order to examine the concerned area more closely.

Our mammography technical staff are all registered with specific credentials for mammography.

We provide the latest in ultrasound technology, a highly trained medical staff, and a comfortable environment for our patients. We also perform breast ultrasounds to provide guidance for biopsies and other interventions. The breast imaging department is accredited with the American College of Radiology. Our breast ultrasound staff are all registered with specific training in breast ultrasound.

Our highly trained breast health specialists perform breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) for patients on the most advanced equipment in the comfortable setting of our BreastCare Center. We use breast MRI as a screening tool in high risk patients, and also as a diagnostic tool to gather further information about a patient with a specific breast problem.

Once a breast lump or breast abnormality has been detected, your doctor may want you to have a breast biopsy. A biopsy is the only way to achieve an accurate diagnosis of a breast problem. A percutaneous (through the skin) biopsy uses a needle to remove cells (fine needle aspiration) or pieces of tissue (core biopsy).

Approximately 1 million breast biopsies are performed each year, with 60 to 80 percent of them showing benign (non-cancerous) results. This means that up to 80 percent of the patients who undergo these procedures will not need to have breast surgery.