The second most common cause of cancer related deaths in women, breast cancer claims nearly 40,000 lives each year. This year, over 20,000 new cases will be diagnosed in the United States alone; one in eight women will be affected by breast cancer during her lifetime.
Early detection is the best weapon in the fight against breast cancer; studies prove that early diagnosis and treatment result in a nearly 100% five year survival rate. At Gaston Radiology, we offer our patients a comprehensive scope of services designed to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages. Our fellowship trained radiologists are experts in the most up to date techniques and technologies, and we are the only practice in the region to offer digital mammography exclusively.
Widely recognized as the most effective method for
Our Services
Breast Biopsy
A biopsy is the only way to determine if an abnormality in the breast is cancerous or benign. A needle biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure where a radiologist will remove a tiny amount of breast tissue through a needle, and a pathologist will look at the tissue under a microscope to provide a diagnosis.
The radiologist can use ultrasound, mammogram or MRI as guidance during the biopsy procedure. Ultrasound-guided biopsy is commonly performed. During this procedure patients lie comfortably on an exam table, and after using local anesthesia to numb the area small samples of the breast lesion are taken.
Stereotactic-guided biopsy uses mammogram images for guidance. We are able to provide needle biopsy using both traditional 2D mammogram images, as well as 3D mammography. This allows us to perform breast biopsies safely and quickly for our patients. We also perform these biopsies with patient's seated comfortably in a chair.
Gaston Radiology is also able to offer MRI-guided breast biopsy. This important advanced technique is used for abnormalities not seen on mammogram or ultrasound.
early detection of breast disease, traditional mammography is a low-dose x-ray of the breast. This procedure captures an image on film which can be developed and read by a radiology physician specialist. Digital mammography uses digital detectors to convert x-rays into electronic signals which can be downloaded into a computer and reviewed on a high-resolution monitor. The result is a much more comprehensive image of the breast tissue, including the chest wall, near the skin line, and areas that contain dense tissue. According to the D Mist study, digital mammagraphy detects 20% more breast lumps than traditional mammography for certain groups of women.
The American Cancer Society recommends that women over the age of 40 have a screening mammogram once a year. Women with a family history of breast cancer, who have experienced early menstrual onset or late onset menopause, who use oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, or alcohol are at a higher risk.
Visit the American Cancer Society's website to learn more about a Breast Self-Exam.