Memorial Healthcare System Transitions to Digital Mammography to Aid in the Early Detection of Cancer
January 2007 — Impressive changes are underway at Memorial Healthcare System in the detection of breast cancer. Early detection is crucial, and to aid in this effort Memorial Healthcare System is implementing digital mammography at all its mammography sites. A revolution in technology will help save more lives and Memorial Healthcare System is proud to be a part of that change.
For years, physicians and patients have relied on mammography as the "gold standard" in the diagnosis of breast cancer. While mammography continues to be a vital tool for physicians in detecting breast cancer, the way mammograms are performed is changing. Memorial Healthcare System is going filmless, transitioning all its mammography sites to Selenia Digital Mammography®. For the patient, the change may be subtle. "From a patient's perspective, the exam is the same as a film-based mammogram. The breast still needs to be compressed to capture the image," Mary Hayes, MD, Medical Director of Memorial Healthcare System Women's Imaging Centers. Digital mammography takes an electronic image of the breast and stores it on a computer. That image can then be enhanced and magnified for further evaluation. Dr. Hayes explains, "The digital images provide optimal resolution and contrast of images, allowing the radiologist to detect subtle signs of early breast cancer."
There are no physical warning signs in the earliest stages of breast cancer, which is why mammograms are so important. With early detection and treatment, more women increase their chances for survival. When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for breast cancer exceeds 95 percent.
The transition to fully digital mammography solidifies Memorial's commitment to offering a model, comprehensive breast care program. Digital mammography will be available in the following facilities: Memorial Regional Hospital, Memorial Regional Hospital South, Memorial Hospital West, Memorial Hospital Miramar, Memorial Hospital Pembroke and Esther L. Grossman Women's Health and Resource Center.
If you have concerns about your risk of breast cancer and would like a referral to a physician, call Memorial Physician Referral Service toll-free at (800) 944-DOCS. We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.