The newest tool in the breast cancer solutions toolbox, the Reader works with the Dragon Boat-funded Stereotactic Breast Biopsy Unit to improve the diagnostic-treatment process. Hundreds of Central Island women will benefit from imaging enhancements made possible by this state-of-the-art equipment piece.
The Reader allows mammography images to be viewed and stored digitally, replacing traditional wet, film x-ray. It allows mammography images to be sent immediately to nearby technicians for analysis. Some of the benefits:
- Causes no patient discomfort, as it does not come into contact with the patient’s body.
- Provides more accurate images of tumors and micro-calcifications (indicating possible cancer sites).
- Produces measurably better mammography images for women with dense, as opposed to fatty, breast tissue; women under 50 years of age; and those who are pre- or perimenopausal.
- Immediate transfer of mammography images into hospital’s computer system allows images to be viewed on any computer screen, anywhere in the world (e.g.: physician’s office, operating room) within ½ hour of patient’s exam.
- Helps guide care strategies by allowing radiologists/physicians to view and compare multiple exam images and compare pre- and post treatment images.
- Eliminates the need for a second mammogram in the same visit and duplicate exams for transferred patients.
The $250,000 digital reader works in conjunction with, and enhances the effectiveness of, the hospital's existing mammography equipment. With its addition to the NRGH Medical Imaging department, Central Island women will have more options than ever before for achieving a healthy outcome.
For more information, please call our office at 250-755-7690; toll free 250-947-8212 in Parksville/Qualicum.
You can help the Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival Society fund this piece of equipment. Click here to visit the Festival Website.
