You may suspect breast cancer if a lump or change is discovered in your breast. We offer advanced diagnostic imaging to detect breast abnormalities in their early stage when cancers are most treatable. Imaging helps physicians determine whether the change is benign or an abnormal finding that may need follow-up testing and/or treatment.
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3D mammography examines the breast using X-ray images to provide clear visibility and a better understanding of the breast tissue. This technique offers improved detection of cancer, lower biopsy rates and a reduced need for follow-up imaging. Grand View uses the GE SenoClaire system, which releases the lowest dose of radiation in the industry, providing the highest level of patient care and comfort.
In combination with digital mammography, we use computer-aided detection (CAD), which brings suspicious areas on a mammogram to a radiologist’s attention. CAD detects slight changes that can lead to an early diagnosis and more effective treatment of cancer.
Although breast tomosynthesis is not yet available in all imaging facilities, GVH provides breast tomosynthesis at three locations. Please check with your center prior to scheduling.
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If a lump is found on your breast, your doctor may order an ultrasound. An ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic test that identifies a solid or fluid-filled mass. A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create a computer image of the inside of the breast and detects breast changes that may not be seen on a mammogram.
For select patients at increased risk for breast cancer, we offer whole breast screening ultrasound.
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MRI of the breast is a supplemental tool that may be used along with mammography or ultrasound imaging for:
- Women at high risk for breast cancer
- After cancer diagnosis, to determine the extent of breast cancer
- Abnormalities seen on mammography that are difficult to assess
- Monitoring response to chemotherapy
- Evaluating breast implants
This advanced non-invasive procedure uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine the breast. A breast MRI determines what the inside of the breast looks like on multiple levels without using surgery or flattening the breast like a mammogram. The MRI exam may require you to receive an injection of contrast material (gadolinium). It is uncommon for patients to have an allergy to gadolinium.
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In the event that initial imaging shows an abnormality, a biopsy may be recommended for definitive diagnosis and further management. There are several minimally invasive ways to evaluate abnormal findings in the breast. Minimally invasive biopsies are generally faster and less painful than surgical removal of tissue and typically cause minimal scarring.
- Stereotactic Biopsy: Stereotactic biopsy involves using a mammogram to guide a hollow needle through the skin into the suspicious tissue. A pathologist then examines the tissue to determine if it is malignant (cancerous) or benign so that treatment planning can begin, if needed.
- Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy: An ultrasound-guided biopsy involves using the ultrasound machine to guide a hollow needle through the skin into the suspicious tissue. A pathologist then examines the tissue to determine if it is malignant (cancerous) or benign so that treatment planning can begin, if needed.
- MRI-Guided Biopsy: An MRI guided biopsy involves using the MRI machine to guide a hollow needle through the skin into the suspicious tissue. A pathologist then examines the tissue to determine if it is malignant (cancerous) or benign so that treatment planning can begin, if needed