Redmond Performs First Local MRI Guided Biopsy

By RomeNewswire • on April 3, 2009

Breast Cancer is a rising concern for today’s woman. The current\ statistics show that 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. With staggering numbers like these, it is essential new technologies and capabilities be added to help detect breast cancer early.

Rome, Georgia is fortunately at the top of the list for cutting edge technology. April 1st, 2009 marked the day the first MRI guided biopsy was performed in the Rome and Floyd County area. Radiologists Dan Phillips, M.D. and Rusty Roberts, M.D performed the procedure at Redmond Regional Medical Center.

Redmond’s ability to perform this procedure lies with the GE Signa HDz 1.5T MRI located in the Women’s Center. Redmond added this state of the art technology in late 2008. Among other things, the MRI is used to shed light on difficult to see abnormalities in the breast. Radiologists can better image high risk patients, or those with diagnosed breast cancer, and provide that information to clinicians and surgeons in order to optimize a woman’s treatment.

A lady in her seventies, with no family history of breast abnormalities, had a routine screening mammogram showed a very subtle abnormality. The area was not well seen after a thorough workup with standard x-ray and ultrasound so an MRI was ordered for further clarification. The MRI made the scarcely visible lesion obvious on the screen. The radiologists knew an MRI guided biopsy was the next step for evaluation, ensuring precise sampling of the abnormality.

Dr. Phillips says, “It is great to know that new technology is consistently being brought to the Northwest Georgia area. This is another example of Rome Radiology Group’s goal of providing specialty imaging to all of our patients. In this case, we had the ability to look at the problem from a new angle and provide the best possible care for her as well as other women in our community.”

Dr. Phillips goes on to say, “I encourage all women over 40 to talk with their physician about having their annual screening mammogram. While MRI is a great tool in the right situation, it should not replace routine mammograms which have been proven to detect early signs of breast cancer.”