The biograph™ system, from Siemens Medical Systems, Inc., merges PET (Positron Emission Tomography) and CT (Computerized Tomography) technology to provide improved cancer detection and therapy planning. As the patient is transported through the biograph, the anatomically detailed information obtained from a CT scan is merged with the biological function recorded by the PET scanner to form a biograph, or an image that records living tissues and life processes. This information obtained from the biograph permits accurate tumor detection and localization for a variety of cancers, including melanoma, lymphoma, lung, colorectal, head and neck, and ovarian cancers. The technology can also be used to reduce biopsy sampling errors, improve therapy planning, and assess response to treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

The biograph technology offers several benefits to patients, including earlier diagnosis; accurate staging and localization; precise treatment and patient monitoring; and early detection of the recurrence of cancer. The exam is generally performed in less than one hour.

Galactogram is a procedure to evaluate breast ducts. If you have an abnormal nipple discharge, your physician may order this procedure. A small needle is gently inserted into the nipple and X-ray dye is injected. X-rays of the breast will show the anatomy of the ducts, which can help your physician to determine the cause of the discharge. Results are often available immediately.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is available off site. Our radiologists work at Kentucky Diagnostic Center, where MRI studies are preformed. Your physician can help you decide if an MRI is appropriate for you. MRI is a computerized body imaging process that uses radiowaves and powerful magnets to provide three-dimensional images of the body. MRI will also be available on site in early 2005!

Mammogram is a low-radiation X-ray that views the internal structures of the breast from the top and side. The breast is positioned between two surfaces to get a clear picture. It is usually painless, but some women may find the pressure to be somewhat uncomfortable. The radiologist needs several views of your breast; it is not unusual for many pictures to be taken. Our radiologists read the x-rays and then process them through the Computer Aided Diagnostic Imaging Tool. This state-of-the-art technology double-checks the mammograms to rule out potential problems.

• Screening mammograms—routinely examine breast tissue to detect changes. These are recommended annually for women over the age of 40. The results are available within two to four days.
• Diagnostic mammograms—used to evaluate breast symptoms: lumps, thickening, nipple discharge, or pain. Results are available shortly after the test. Additional studies, such as ultrasound maybe recommended by the radiologist who immediately evaluates your films.

Needle localization is a procedure preformed using x-rays to determine the precise location of abnormal tissue. A needle can be inserted into the area to allow your surgeon to accurately remove the abnormality for analysis.

Stereotactic biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses three-dimensional computerized imaging to pinpoint suspicious areas in the breast. Tissue samples may be withdrawn with a needle. This type of biopsy is most helpful when the abnormality can be seen on mammogram but not felt on physical examination. Results are available within two to four days.

Ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses high frequency sound waves to create an image of body tissue. Images are displayed on video screens and photographed for our radiologist to read. Ultrasound can often reveal whether a lump is filled with fluid or is solid. Ultrasound waves pass thru fluid but bounce off solid areas. Ultrasounds are painless and results are often available immediately.

Ultrasound guided biopsy can be preformed if your diagnostic mammogram or ultrasound reveals a breast abnormality that the radiologist recommends be examined with biopsy. Image guided biopsies are preformed in the radiology department. After using a local anesthesia to numb your skin, the radiologist can use a needle to withdraw cells or a tissue specimen for analysis. The radiologist may use an Ultrasound or a Stereotactic mammogram to accurately locate the area to be biopsied. Your biopsy will then be sent to the pathologist for careful evaluation. Results are available within one – two days.