News

Montgomery Breast Center Introduces Nation's First Gammaloc® Biopsy

April 22, 2010

Montgomery Breast Center is the first in the country to install and use the GammaLoc® lesion-localization system - the only FDA-approved device for gamma-guided, minimally invasive needle biopsy of suspicious lesions identified with Breast-Specific Gamma Imaging (BSGI).

BSGI uses the Dilon 6800® gamma camera to reveal lesions independent of tissue density and discover early stage cancers that can be missed with other imaging methods.

Dr. Cynthia Lorino, director of breast imaging at Montgomery Breast Center, said, "We're excited to offer this new technology for the well-being of our patients. It's another sign of our commitment at Montgomery Breast Center to lead the field in the battle against breast cancer."

Lorino has already performed successful biopsies with the GammaLoc system. "[This device] allows for precise and efficient biopsies," she said. "BSGI often discovers cancerous lesions that are not seen on mammograms or ultrasound. Now we have a way to quickly sample suspicious tissue and give accurate results for a patient's peace of mind."

Montgomery Breast Center physicians can use the GammaLoc to calculate the specific depth and location of a suspect lesion, while a computer offers detailed step-by-step instructions throughout the biopsy procedure. Small and portable, the GammaLoc system utilizes a CorreLocatorT paddle and a StereoViewT imaging collimator system - a technique similar to that used in stereotactic X-ray localization.

"This is a huge step forward in diagnostics, and Montgomery Breast Center is proud to lead the way with the GammaLoc," said Lorino. "It's a significant tool for us to more effectively locate breast cancer and determine the best course of treatment, all while optimizing patient comfort."

Montgomery Breast Center, a subsidiary of Montgomery Cancer Center, is a nationally recognized leader in breast imaging. With a stated commitment to personal care and minimally invasive, state-of-the-art technology, the center offers some of the region's most advanced screening, diagnostic and treatment services all under one roof. For more information on the GammaLoc system, visit www.dilon.com.