Breast Cancer Detection Procedure Offered at PCH/FMC

Paris Community Hospital/Family Medical Center now offers stereotactic breast biopsies, performed by Dr. John Nadeau, general surgeon. This procedure is part of the PCH/FMC women’s health program.

Stereotactic breast biopsy is an out-patient procedure that collects tissue samples for analysis to help doctors properly screen their patients for breast cancer. This state-of-the-art technique uses two X-ray images, each one taken from a different angle, to pinpoint the abnormality within the breast. The physician places a needle in the target area to obtain a tissue sample.

Stereotactic breast biopsy is less invasive than an open, or surgical, biopsy, which would require a larger incision.

This biopsy may be recommended to patients when their mammogram results are suspicious, clusters of calcium deposits (microcalcifications) are present, a change in tissue has occurred, or a new mass is present.

“Mammograms are not enough to make a cancer diagnosis,” said Dr. Nadeau. “Biopsies are a necessary second step to a correct diagnosis, and stereotactic breast biopsy is a less invasive option for women than surgery.”

The out-patient procedure takes a short time to complete, needing only a local anesthetic to be administered. The recovery time is quick. Patients can resume their normal activities after the exam, but it is suggested that they rest for 24 hours after the biopsy.

“This procedure has been proven to be as effective as a surgical biopsy without the common risks associated with surgery, such as a long recovery time, scarring, and a high chance of infection,” Dr. Nadeau said.

Breast cancer is a major killer of women, and recent data shows that the threat is close to home.

According to the Illinois Department of Health, Edgar County has an invasive breast cancer rate of 132.1 per 100,000 females and Clark County has a rate of 97.1. The Edgar County number is seven points higher than the state’s rate of 125.4, while the Clark County number is just below the state’s rate.

Along with stereotactic breast biopsy, PCH/FMC has many other breast health services to offer, including digital mammography, a dietician, physical therapy, a social worker, pastoral care, lymphedema therapy, and women’s health visits.

There is also a cancer support group. PCH/FMC has worked hard to provide a comprehensive breast health program to serve the women in our community.

To use any of the women’s services above, call the hospital at (217) 465-4141. To learn more about stereotactic breast biopsy, call (217) 465-2606, Ext. 586.