Unique Mammography Unit at Mon General Creates the Highest-Quality Breast Images in the Industry

    Mon General Hospital is one of only five hospitals in the nation to offer the Fischer-Giotto digital breast imaging system for both mammograms and breast biopsy.  The unit produces the highest-possible digital mammography images, making it much easier to detect abnormalities at the earliest stages.  This increases the chances of breast cancer survival, since early detection is critical to successful treatment.

    The Fischer-Giotto stereotactic breast biopsy system was approved by the FDA in 2012.  It produces so-called “full-field” high-resolution digital images that assist surgeons in delicate biopsy procedures. Superior digital breast images mean safer, more accurate biopsies.

    “Micro calcifications can be difficult to biopsy unless there is adequate resolution,” explained Joseph Migaiolo, M.D., Chief of Radiology at Mon General Hospital.  “Breast images created with the Fischer-Giotto help radiologists and surgeons visualize those tiny calcifications during biopsy for improved success.  Previously used technology was often inferior to this task.”

    Stereotactic biopsies are minimally invasive procedures, and thanks to the ultra-clear digital images produced with the Fischer-Giotto system, more patients can be candidates.  

    “With stereotactic biopsies, a local anesthetic is used, and the patient is awake during the procedure,” said Dr. Migaiolo.  “This minimally-invasive technique is most often desired, but only when it’s appropriate.  Fischer-Giotto digital images increase the chances that stereotactic breast biopsy can be used.”  

    There are only five other Fischer-Giotto systems in the United States.  The next nearest one is in Saratoga, NY.  

    “Mon General Hospital has a long commitment of offering the very latest technology in women’s healthcare, from our Women’s Imaging Center to our gynecologic oncology treatment and surgery at the Zelda Stein Weiss Cancer Center,” said Darryl Duncan, Mon General System President and CEO.  “As we mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are proud to be the only hospital in the region to offer this superior breast imaging system to our patients.”