In The Spotlight
ADVANCE for Imaging and Radiation Oncology, Sept/Oct 2011 - Mammography Update: Dr. Luz A. Venta, medical director of the Methodist Breast Imaging Center, looks at studies published after the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force's controversial 2009 mammogram guidelines.
National Recognition
The Methodist Breast Imaging Center is recognized as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology (ACR) Commission on Quality and Safety and the Commission on Breast Imaging. The center is accredited by the ACR in mammography, stereotactic breast biopsy, breast ultrasound and ultrasound-guided breast biopsy.
Early Detection
Breast cancer is a frightening diagnosis, but it's not the end of the story. Tremendous resources have been devoted to the development of new treatments and new therapies. Surgery, hormone therapy, chemotherapy and radiation are all possible treatments — and with new advancements, they can be more effective and have fewer side effects.
Early detection is key. According to the National Cancer Institute, when breast cancer is found early and still localized, the relative survival rate (measured at five years) is 97 percent.
Breast MRI & MRI Biopsy
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, has revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of numerous illnesses. It is now being used in testing for breast cancer. For some patients, breast MRI actually works better than a conventional mammogram. In other cases, breast MRI can clarify the results of a conventional mammogram, providing additional information and helping to improve diagnosis.
When an MRI identifies a lesion within the breast, it may be used as a guide to a biopsy of the lesion, helping us to gather a tissue sample with greater accuracy.
Learn more about breast MRI at the Methodist Breast Imaging Center.
Leadership
Dr. Luz A. Venta is the Medical Director of the Methodist Breast Imaging Center. Since 1994, she has dedicated her career to women's health by advancing the field of breast cancer detection through breast imaging and digital mammography. In 2003, she introduced breast MRI to The Methodist Hospital prior to the American Cancer Society's acknowledgement of it as a powerful tool in the detection of breast cancer.
