Women's Health Centers

Center for Breast Imaging

A mammogram is a x-ray picture of the breast. It can find breast cancer that is too small for you, your doctor, or nurse to feel. Studies show that if you are in your forties or older, having a mammogram every 1 to 2 years could save your life. Talk with your doctor about your chances of getting breast cancer. Your doctor can help you decide when you should start having mammograms and how often you should have them.

Mercy Health Partners' Center for Breast Imaging, located on the Oak Campus, is pleased to offer some very special and new services to women.

New to the Center for Breast Imaging (and first in the Lakeshore area) is the Mammoreader, a computer-aided detection system that searches existing mammograms for all primary signs of breast cancer and can help detect breast cancer earlier - up to 14 months. The MammoReader makes a regular screening mammogram more effective, by analyzing a patient's conventional mammogram and creating an Image Analysis which highlights areas on a patient's mammogram that warrant particular review by the Radiologist. "The MammoReader offers a 'second set of eyes' in the screening mammogram process," said Anne Hoekenga, Breast Imaging Manager. "An original mammogram is inserted into a reader for a second review and with the use of algorithms it detects any primary cancer," said Hoekenga.

In most cases, this additional analysis is fully reimbursable by insurance carriers thus avoiding any additional cost to the patient.

Also another new option for women is a core breast biopsy using the Mammotome system. This new service can help a doctor make a highly accurate diagnosis without the need for traditional biopsy surgery. Through the use of computer imaging, a breast abnormality can be clearly identified and mapped, even in its earliest stages. Digital imaging enables a physician to use the computer-guided Mammotome probe to gently collect tissue samples through one small ¼-inch incision. The probe is inserted through the incision and gently vacuums, cuts, and removes tissue sample for examination. Because the probe is directional, multiple tissue samples can be collected without having to remove and reinsert the device. This device can be used with ultrasound or x-ray guidance.

The new system is just as accurate as surgery in obtaining a tissue sample as traditional biopsy surgery, but takes only about an hour; requires local anesthesia; requires no stitching; results in no scarring; and is less expensive to perform. This core biopsy with x-ray guidance is done using a new and specially-designed stereotactic table.

A faster turn-around time for women with breast problems (nipple discharge or a mammogram diagnosed lump) is also an option at the Center for Breast Imaging. "A woman with an obvious problem can be seen in the clinic, have a biopsy done and within a day have diagnosis of the abnormal tissue," said Hoekenga.

"While the prospect of a breast biopsy may seem frightening to many women, the results can provide peace of mind. A majority of biopsies - 80 percent -- are not cancerous," said Hoekenga.

Women who wish to make an appointment for a mammogram at MHP or need additional information about breast imaging services at MHP may call (231) 672-6890.

MHP Orthotic and Prosthetic Department offers a post mastectomy boutique for women needing bras and other items. For more information about post-mastectomy services call (231) 672-4886.

Learn about your exam from the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)