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Fairfield Memorial Hospital’s New Mammotome Breast Biopsy System - 2010-05-20

When you hear the words breast biopsy many emotions and concerns raise; however, it is important to note that almost 80% of breast biopsies do not turn out to be cancerous. 

That is why it is important to know there are options when selecting a biopsy procedure.  One of the least invasive forms of a breast biopsy is suction assisted (Mammotome) needle biopsy.

Fairfield Memorial Hospital has recently upgraded their breast biopsy system. Biopsies can now be done with ultrasound guidance or using the stereotactic mammographic biopsy system.  Patrick L. Molt, M.D., FACS, General Surgeon, uses the technique along with the assistance of the mammography technologists.  Dr. Molt has extensive training in invasive breast procedures and breast surgery, and is an asset to Fairfield Memorial Hospital along with radiologists Enrique Bouffard, II, M.D. and Gerald Hanley, M.D.

How does it work?  Through the use of x-ray or ultrasound the abnormality or lump is located.  Once the lump is located, Dr. Molt gently guides a Mammotome probe into a suspicious area of the breast. He then gently collects a specimen of abnormal tissue through a small incision, no more than a quarter of an inch long. Biopsies are done as an outpatient procedure with a local anesthetic. The procedure itself takes minutes; there is minimal pain and scarring.  Recovery time is also minimal as most patients can resume normal activity immediately.

The Diagnostic Imaging Department at Fairfield Memorial Hospital offers digital mammography, breast ultrasound, stereotactic and ultrasound guided breast biopsy and needle localization, along with breast education materials available for any group or organization interested.

“I am very excited at the upgrades in our breast diagnostic equipment at FMH.  The addition of the new Mammotome system greatly enhances our abilities to obtain image directed biopsies.  In the past year we have added digital mammography, upgraded our diagnostic ultrasound equipment, and obtained the new Mammotome system.  This puts our capabilities on a par with any institution anywhere,” stated Dr. Molt.

Digital Mammograms can be scheduled by calling the Fairfield Memorial Hospital Imaging Department at (618) 847-8249.  For questions or if you are in need of having a breast biopsy you can contact Dr. Molt’s office at 618-842-3813 or the FMH Imaging Department at 618-847-8249.

Pictured are the FMH board certified mammography technologists; Rhonda Grinols, RT(R)(M)(CT), Melinda Courtright, RT(R)(M), RDMS, and Melanie Perkins, RT (R)(M)(CT) RDMS, with the new Mammotome Breast Biopsy System.