Expanded Womancare to offer patients quicker mammography results, new minimally invasive Biopsy Technology

While about 70 to 80 percent of breast abnormalities detected through mammography screenings and clinical breast exams are noncancerous, waiting for the results can cause great anxiety. Saint Francis Medical Center's expanded Womancare facility, opening in early May 2011, will reduce that wait significantly.

The facility will optimize efficiency and streamline the process by combining leading-edge technology with the advantage of an on-site team of experts in one convenient location.

"Medical staff personnel will be on site at all times to provide real-time feedback for patients, minimizing the most anxiety-filled period of the appointment," says Olivia Aranha, MD, PhD, medical oncologist/hematologist at Saint Francis. "A radiologist will provide mammography test results, and a surgeon will be available to consult with women about possible next steps when abnormal test results occur."

The multidisciplinary team will work together to provide feedback quickly so retesting can take place immediately, if needed, for better outcomes, quicker results and peace of mind.

Already, Womancare is expanding its technology to enhance breast health services available in the region with the recent addition of advanced stereotactic breast biopsy equipment. Stereotactic breast biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows a radiologist to pinpoint the location of an abnormality and extract a tissue sample through a very small nick in the skin – so small that no sutures are necessary, and signs of the procedure are gone in days.

As it has for 25 years, Womancare will continue to offer women in the region vital care and resources, including state-of-the-art digital mammography – the most effective method for detecting breast cancer before symptoms appear – as well as clinical breast exams by a registered nurse, treatment for menopause, bone density testing and other expert services for women's health needs throughout life.

In addition, Saint Francis' exclusive local affiliation with MD Anderson Physicians Network® provides cancer patients in the region access to evidence-based treatment protocols and processes developed by the renowned University of Texas' MD Anderson Cancer Center.

For more information, visit www.sfmc.net or call Saint Francis at 573-331-5877.