If a mammogram shows a potentially cancerous growth of cells, it may be necessary to further explore those abnormal findings. At Ashtabula County Medical Center, that can now be done through stereotactic biopsy.
Instead of cutting into the breast to remove a sample, a physician will use a needle to retrieve the sample. Guided by the surgeons or radiologist, the stereotactic equipment moves the needle to the area of concern and vacuums out the sample tissue.
The procedure is quick, compared to open surgery, less costly, and there is little or no discomfort.
In the past, if the physicians were concerned about an area or a density in the breast, they would schedule needle localization. These procedures started in the radiology department with a wire being placed in the breast and ended in the operating room, with the removal of a significant piece of breast tissue. The area would be tender to the touch for several days and the patient would have necessary work restrictions.
With the new method, a physician takes the sample for testing right at the mammogram unit. This does not require a full operating room, which means a shorter period between an initial screening and the biopsy.
It also means less pain, because the stereotactic biopsy is minimally-invasive. There is also less recovery time. Patients who have had the new procedure say they are able to return to their normal activities immediately.
The stereotactic biopsy system works in conjunction with the two new digital mammography units purchased last year by ACMC.
With digital mammography, the technologist can evaluate the quality of the images as they are taken. The image brightness, contrast, and a negative image can all be adjusted so the technologist can more easily distinguish between tissue and cancerous cells.
The digital image can also be magnified after the mammogram is complete, which makes it easier to see subtle differences between tissues.
Electronic transmission of images from one physician to another is quick, easy and secure. The images can also be printed on a CD - if needed.
Another added benefit of digital mammography is that patients spend less time in the exam room.
To schedule a mammogram, contact your physician for a referral. Once you have a physician’s order, contact ACMC’s Centralized Scheduling department at 440-997-6590. ACMC offers extended hours throughout the week and on Saturday mornings for our patients’ convenience.