Breast Care
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. At Northwest Healthcare, we educate patients on breast health, and encourage self-exams and routine screenings. Our imaging technology, including breast-specific gamma imaging helps detect breast cancer at the earliest stages, when treatment can be most effective. The combination of this technology and experienced technologists allows the team to deliver quality breast care.
3D Mammography
Mammography is an X-ray exam of the breasts used to screen for, or diagnose, breast cancer. Northwest Healthcare offers 3-D imaging technology for mammograms, so radiologists can zoom in on particular areas of the breast or change brightness or contrast for even greater visibility, and results can be read immediately. For patients, this means:
- Improved accuracy of screening exams, especially for women with dense breast tissue.
- Less radiation exposure.
- Greater image quality, reducing the need for repeat exams.
Breast MRI
Along with mammography, breast MRI can be an effective diagnostic tool, especially for women who are at greater risk of developing cancer or who have dense breast tissue or implants. In these cases, mammography is less effective at detecting abnormalities. Breast MRI offers a more comfortable experience for women, and is used to:
- Assess the extent of breast cancer.
- Determine the effectiveness of chemotherapy or radiation therapy during breast cancer treatment.
- Further evaluate abnormalities in the breast that were found during a mammogram or clinical exam.
- Provide additional detail for treatment planning.
Stereotactic Biopsies
When a lump or abnormal area is detected during a health screening, a biopsy can determine whether cells are cancerous. We often combine advanced imaging technology - such as MRI, mammography or ultrasound - with minimally invasive techniques to obtain tissue samples for biopsy.
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