New equipment for MRI can enhance diagnostic testing for breast cancer

Early detection of breast cancer is vital to the patient's recovery as stated by Marilyn F. Griffiths, chairwoman of the Yuma Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Capital Budget for the fiscal year 2007-08.

To enhance diagnostic testing for breast cancer, the YRMC Auxiliary has donated a positioning coil now added to MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) equipment. "The $114,000 piece was part of the $188,201 donated by the auxiliary to the hospital," Griffiths said. "Auxiliary's contribution is important to women. I know, because I'm a 17-year (breast cancer) survivor."

"The 'Phantom breast' as we dubbed it, is portable so it can be used with MRI," explained Aurelia Duco, an MRI technician and mammogram expert. "The patient must lie face down, her head cradled in a support, and her breasts placed in the positioning coil. area. An intravenous injection with a contrast — none with iodine — is given. Because the procedure takes between 30 to 45 minutes and is uncomfortable, the patient may also be given a relaxant."

The patient can also listen to music while going through the MRI procedure.

Dr. John T. James, medical director of radiology, said, "The Phantom procedure can check implant integrity, look for other mammogram results, can solve problems and diagnose biopsies and lumpectomies.

"The patient's physician makes the request for the procedure. The course of action for the patient is to have a mammogram, if there is an abnormality, then an ultrasound is made. If there is a high abnormality, the MRI is done. Through this, the area of abnormality can be confirmed and a second ultrasound is suggested. We're finding that through imaging and second look, we've found where the abnormality is."

The doctor said the procedure is being found successful to start treatment in at least 70 percent of the patients.

"The 'Phantom' is already in use at YRMC," the radiologist said.


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Pam M. Smith can be reached at psmith@yumasun.com or 539-6856.