From Danville Regional Health System
Better Health Magazine Archives

Danville Regional leads the way in providing breast cancer prevention programs aimed at diagnosing and treating this disease in its earliest stages. From mammography and self-exam instruction to breast biopsy, ultrasound, and surgery, Danville Regional makes breast care a top priority. Now with the introduction of the Mammotome Breast Biopsy System, radiologists and oncologists have a new and powerful tool in the detection arsenal.

The Mammotome Breast Biopsy System provides a less invasive and more accurate method of cancer detection than previous biopsy methods. "The Mammotome System requires only a single insertion," says Gerald Johnson, Ph. D. and chairperson of the Breast Health Coalition of Danville/Pittsylvania County, "unlike traditional open surgical biopsy, which requires a larger skin incision, or a core needle biopsy with multiple insertions."

During a Mammotome biopsy, also called a vacuum-assisted biopsy, a radiologist inserts a tube into the breast tissue under local anesthesia. Using stereotactic (x-rays from two different angles) or ultrasound guidance, the Mammotome probe is situated within the abnormal area of the breast with minimal discomfort. Once in position, a vacuum system gently draws tissue into a sample chamber. A rotating device cuts the small tissue sample and sends it to a tissue collection area.

In early stage conditions, the Mammotome System is as accurate as traditional open surgical biopsy in diagnosing certain breast cancers and three times m ore accurate than a core needle biopsy in diagnosing conditions associated with early stage breast cancer.

"Breast health is one of the leading health issues we need to address in the Dan River Region," says Johnson. "Without access to adequate healthcare many women choose to ignore symptoms until it's too late. We're working with various health organizations in the region to get proper care and information to many at-risk women. Knowledge is definitely power."