The St. Francis Breast Center, located on the second floor of the Health Center, offers digital mammography so women can get accurate results quickly, including the ability to have additional procedures the same day, if necessary. Digital mammography enables technologists to take complete mammograms in about five minutes compared to 20 or more minutes for traditional film. Digital mammography is also available at St. Francis Mission Woods.
Results are available within 48 hours as compared to seven to 10 days with standard mammography techniques, and a radiologist works within the Breast Center to review images. The St. Francis Picture and Archival Communication System also allow physicians or radiologists to view the images anywhere in the Health Center or at the physician’s home or office to expedite care plans.
James Werner, MD, says, “Digital mammography is one of the most important diagnostic breakthroughs in women’s health care.”
Convenient, designated parking at St. Francis Health Center’s Entry A provides quick access to the lobby where an elevator near the main entrance takes women to the second-floor Breast Center.
If she has a symptom and needs a diagnostic rather than a routine mammogram, a radiologist can review the images immediately and arrangements can be made for a stereotactic biopsy the same day.
Ericka Watkins, supervisor the Breast Center, says, “The time savings are a blessing for women who will only have to wait a few hours for an outcome instead of worrying and wondering for several days.”
Watkins said in addition to time savings, women who are under 50 and pre-menopausal or who have dense breasts benefit because the digital equipment offers clearer resolution and can penetrate fibrous tissue.
With standard mammograms, a technologist must leave the room to develop the images, but with digital technology the technologist can remain in the room and manipulate the images to make it lighter or darker.
“In just three minutes, the technologists can position the breast and review the images on the screen,” explains Watkins.
St. Francis Breast Center High-tech, Soft touch Benefits
- Results within 48 hours
- Breast Exams
- Radiologist in the Breast Center
- Picture Archival and Communication System capabilities so physicians can view images from multiple locations including home and office to expedite care plans
- MammoPad cushion upon request to provide warmth and comfort during compression
- Convenient, designated parking at Entry A
For an appointment at any of the following locations, St. Francis Breast Center, St. Francis Mission Woods or St. Francis North Clinic please call 785-295-8350.