In the past, when abnormalities, or lesions, were noted in a patient’s mammogram, they were treated in one of two ways. Either they were “followed” over a period of time by a physician to determine any significant changes, or the patient had surgery to

According to Women’s Center Clinical Coordinator and mammography technologist, Betty Brown, a large percentage of these abnormalities are benign and present no health risk to the patient.

“That is the founding reason for the invention of stereotactic breast biopsy technology,” says Brown. “It’s a much less invasive way to obtain the tissue sample needed for diagnosis and it requires less recovery time than traditional biopsies. Additionally, there is no significant scarring to the breast.”

Western Baptist Hospital has installed and is now using the new Fischer Stereotactic Breast Biopsy Unit (the Mammotest® Biopsy) to offer this leading technology to its patients. During the procedure, the patient will lie face down on the special Mammotest® examination table. The patient’s breast will be positioned through a small opening in the table. The table will then be elevated so the physician and radiologic technologist can work from below.

The patient’s breast is compressed with a compression paddle, very similar to the way it is during a traditional mammogram. A confirming X-ray is then taken to ensure that the area of the breast containing the lesion is centered in the paddle window. Stereo X-rays (or images taken at different angles) are then made. Once this is complete, the biopsy needle is precisely positioned with the help of a computer.

The biopsy area is numbed with local anesthetic and subsequently, the biopsy needle is inserted into the breast. Another set of X-rays is then taken to ensure proper needle placement, before the tissue samples are acquired.

Brown says that most patients experience only minor discomfort during the procedure and are very thankful that such advanced technology exists.

“Having such innovative technology available to our patients is something in which we take great pride,” says Brown. “And it also makes our patients feel more confident and comfortable during their procedures.”

WBH Receives ACR Accreditation
Western Baptist has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in magnetic resonance imaging and breast ultrasound by the American College of Radiology.

ACR standards assure that the highest quality procedures are performed, and that the hospital’s technologists and radiologists are highly trained and skilled in their respective disciplines.