The centerpiece of the system is a cushioned, ergonomically engineered exam table, on which a patient lays facedown as a care provider uses a Brevera Breast Biopsy machine to sample suspect breast tissue. That sample is then sent off for analysis.
In addition to 2-D and 3-D mammography equipment, the biopsy system includes built-in imaging equipment to provide a real-time look at sampled tissue to confirm it contains the targeted abnormality, in many cases reducing the time required for the procedure.
An adjustable swing arm provides 360-degree access to the breast and can be easily re-positioned to sample suspect tissue. Previously, a patient would often have to be repositioned to get the best sample, and in some cases be moved to a less-than-ideal seated position, said Joy McWilliams, the breast imaging supervisor.
“The table, where the patient lays down on their stomach, is definitely more comfortable than what we had prior,” McWilliams said, “and the accuracy for the targeting of the doctor is more precise.”
The entire procedure takes around 30 minutes to complete, depending on the case, McWilliams said, and is no more uncomfortable than a routine mammogram.
Although a breast biopsy requires a doctor’s referral, patients can self-refer for their annual mammogram and can call (985) 871-5665 to make an appointment on their own.
Founded in August 2002 as The Breast Center of St. Tammany Hospital, the Women’s Pavilion in 2011 changed its name and moved to its current location on U.S. 190 just north of Interstate 12 in Covington. In that time, it has become the Northshore’s premier destination for comprehensive breast care.