Gateway Women’s Services are designed to follow women throughout their lives offering support through technology and medical expertise. This commitment is reflected in a vast array of services.

Early Detection: Breast Self-Examination
Although a mammogram is the best single method of detecting breast cancer, it is not recommended for women under the age of 35. It is important that all women check their breasts on a monthly basis for lumps or other changes by performing breast self-exams. For more information on breast self-exams call 1-800-ACS-2345 or ask your doctor or nurse.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer
• A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area
• A change in the size or shape of the breast
• Discharge from the nipple
• A change in the color or feel of the skin of the breast, areola or nipple

Diagnosis
Mammography
Gateway now offers digital mammography. Digital mammography is different from conventional mammography in how the image of the breast is viewed and, more importantly, manipulated. Instead of using film to capture and record the image, a digital mammogram uses a special detector to capture and convert x-ray energy into a digital image. The resulting digital images are immediately available to the radiologist for diagnosis. The radiologist can view and manipulate the images on high-resolution computer monitors that enhance visualization of the structures within the breast tissue. They can also adjust brightness and contrast, and zoom in on specific areas to help detect small calcifications, masses, and other changes that may be signs of early cancer. Digital mammography offers a number of other practical advantages and patient conveniences. Because there is no waiting for film to be developed it can significantly reduce the time patients spend in the breast center, as well as reduce the need for repeat exams due to under or over exposure. Digital images are easily stored and transferred electronically, eliminating the dependency on one set of original films.

A screening mammogram is a self-referred series of breast x-rays done on asymptomatic (without symptoms) women. A baseline screening mammogram should be done between the age of 35-40 and yearly after age 40.

A diagnostic mammogram is physician-referred and is done on a person with breast symptoms such as lump, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling. This exam may involve more extensive x-rays than the standard views taken for a screening mammogram.

Computer-aided detection (CAD)
CAD involves the use of computers to bring suspicious areas on a mammogram to the radiologist’s attention. Our CAD device scans the mammogram with a laser beam and converts it into a digital signal that is processed by a computer. The image is then displayed on a video monitor, with any suspicious areas highlighted for the radiologist to review, and then compare with the conventional mammogram to see if any of the highlighted areas require further evaluation.

Ultrasound
An ultrasound is a painless and harmless procedure which works by sending high-frequency sound waves into the breast. These sound waves are then converted into an image of the breast’s interior called a sonogram. Radiologists use sonograms to distinguish between tumors that are solid and those which are cysts, as well as to evaluate some lumps that can be felt but are hard to see on a mammogram.

Mammotome Breast Biopsy
A stereotactic mammotome breast biopsy is a needle biopsy that is computer guided and vacuum assisted. This procedure involves a single insertion of a small probe through an incision about the size of a match head. A vacuum is used to gently draw, cut and collect tissue into the probe’s hollow chamber. This technique enables several samples to be acquired without removing and reinserting the probe. As a result, there is less internal scarring than with other procedures, which is important for the continued monitoring and detection of future breast abnormalities.

Needle Localization
Needle localization is a procedure that uses mammography to locate an abnormality prior to surgery. Using the mammogram as a guide, the radiologist inserts a fine needle or wire into the breast so the tip rests in the suspicious area. A series of films are made assuring the needle is in the proper place. The surgeon then locates and removes the targeted area.

Sentinel Node Biopsy
During a sentinel node biopsy procedure, either a blue dye or a small amount of radioactive material is injected around the tumor site. The lymph node(s) where the dye first accumulates after leaving the tumor region is called the sentinel node. This node is then surgically removed and examined to determine whether or not the remaining lymph nodes need to be removed.

Treatment
• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation

Follow-up
• Reconstructive surgery
• Check-up
• Support

Social Work Services
A social worker is available to talk with you about social and emotional concerns that may impact your illness and treatment. For more information call 931-502-1981.

Support Groups
Support groups provide additional help for patients and families confronted with life-changing situations due to health problems. Please visit our Support Groups page for a list of available support groups.

Other Services Available
Bone Densitometry/Osteoporosis Screening
One in three Caucasian women over the age of 50 has osteoporosis. It can result in curvature of the spine, loss of mobility and hip fractures, which account for more than one-third of all nursing home admissions. Thankfully, there is a painless screening exam that identifies bone loss, allowing for treatment to start at a much earlier stage. Bone density measurements can also evaluate response to treatment. To find out more about osteoporosis ask your doctor or call us at 931-502-1510.

For More Information
Click here for more information on Breast Health or call 931-502-1510. To schedule an appointment call 931-502-1180.