Learn about advances in women’s imaging at Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital

La Grange – Although an estimated one in eight U.S. women (12 percent) will develop breast cancer in a given year, advancements in imaging technology allow more women to survive because of earlier detection. Dr. Mita Majmundar, director of breast imaging and intervention at Adventist Midwest Health, will present a program on how today’s diagnostic tools enable doctors to detect breast cancer at its earliest stage. The event will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. May 12 at Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital, 5101 S. Willow Springs Road, La Grange. The program is free but seats are limited. To register, call 630-856-7525. Light refreshments will be provided.

Majmundar will discuss how mammography, ultrasound, and breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) work together to evaluate a patient’s health.

There are two types of mammograms – screening and diagnostic. Doctors perform a diagnostic mammogram for symptomatic patients or if an abnormality is detected on a screening mammogram. Here, customized images are taken under the supervision of a radiologist for a detailed examination. The American Cancer Society recommends that all women have a baseline screening mammogram at age 40. Those who have a first-degree relative with a history of breast cancer diagnosed before the age of 50 should begin screening 10 years prior to their family member’s age at diagnosis.

“The goal of screening mammography is to detect cancer as early as possible when treatment is more effective and less harmful,” Majmundar said.

If an abnormality is found or confirmed on a diagnostic mammogram, doctors then use ultrasound for further evaluation. Ultrasound is usually the first test used to evaluate lumps in women younger than 30. Breast MRI is used in conjunction with mammography and ultrasound. This helps doctors evaluate the extent of a known tumor and possibly find additional cancer in the same or opposite breast that may have gone undetected.

During a breast MRI, contrast dye is injected into a vein to give radiologists a detailed picture of blood flow to the breasts. Tumors show up easily because they have increased blood flow. MRI may also be used to screen high-risk women, including those with the BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 breast cancer gene, a strong family history of breast cancer or those who had prior radiation to their chest.

After Majmundar’s presentation, visitors are invited to tour Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital’s newly renovated Women’s Imaging Center. The center offers the latest technology in breast cancer detection, including two digital mammography units, a digital stereotactic biopsy table and DEXA bone densitometry system. To accommodate the new technology, the Women’s Imaging Department underwent a major facelift last year that includes a new waiting room and changing area in a more relaxed environment.

Digital imaging has the potential to detect breast cancer at an earlier stage than traditional X-ray mammograms, and early detection is a key factor in breast cancer survival. Digital mammography complements the breast ultrasound and breast MRI services already in place at Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital. Patients appreciate having comprehensive breast care services in a single location.

 “Our newly renovated Women’s Imaging Center builds on our tradition of providing outstanding health care to patients right in their own backyard,” said Rick Wright, chief executive officer of Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital. “We are proud to offer services and advanced technology to detect and treat breast cancer.”

In November 2009, Adventist Hinsdale and Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospitals were certified by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers. The national accreditation means patients receive the highest quality of breast cancer care.

Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital also offers a unique resource to help patients find their way through the health care system: certified patient navigators. These experts not only serve as patient advocates and educators, but also help patients regain a sense of control while they find the strength to heal. They provide resources to patients and their families from serving as a liaison between the patient and physician to offering emotional support. They also offer information about cancer care, support services, prevention, clinical trials and education.

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Adventist Midwest Health includes Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital, Adventist GlenOaks Hospital, Adventist Hinsdale Hospital and Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital. To find a physician, visit www.keepingyouwell.com.