Richmond University Medical Center’s Breast Cancer Treatment
When looking for a breast health center to address a lump in your breast or receive treatment for an existing condition, you want an experienced and knowledgeable team that has the resources to provide the best care possible. Richmond University Medical Center’s Comprehensive Breast and Imaging Center in Staten Island meets all of these expectations and will work with you to provide the treatment and support you need.
When it comes to cancer care, Richmond University Medical Center’s oncology program has been recognized nationally by the American College of Surgeon’s Commission on Cancer Care. Our oncology program has been certified by the Commission on Cancer Care for over 80 consecutive years, the longest consecutively accredited cancer program on Staten Island. To schedule an appointment, call us today at (718)-818-1161.
Diagnosing Breast Cancer
Early detection is especially important for the successful treatment of breast cancer. Diagnosis begins with a patient evaluation, during which you’ll receive a physical exam and answer questions about your medical and family history. Genetic testing can also help determine your risk of developing cancer due to certain hereditary factors.
Advanced medical imaging is also used to locate and assess abnormalities in breast tissue. 3D mammography helps screen for cancer or determine a diagnosis, while breast ultrasounds allow technicians to create a picture of the breast using sound waves. If imaging results raise concerns, your doctor can take a small tissue sample for analysis during a procedure called a biopsy. Biopsy procedures include:
- Stereotactic Breast Biopsy: Abnormalities are located using mammography, then removed for testing.
- Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy: This type of biopsy relies on ultrasound images to guide tissue identification and removal.
After a physical exam, imaging and/or further diagnostics, your doctor will determine whether breast cancer is present and work with you to establish the right care for your needs.
Breast Cancer Treatments
A breast cancer diagnosis can be stressful, but it’s important to keep in mind that there are many treatment options available to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Richmond University Medical Center’s Comprehensive Breast and Imaging Center offers multidisciplinary treatment planning, which allows your doctor to collaborate with a team of experts to identify the most beneficial treatments for your cancer.
You’ll also receive a breast cancer consultation, during which your doctor will share the information you need to understand your diagnosis and all the options available to you. During your consultation, one of the following procedures may be recommended:
- Lumpectomy: This type of surgery preserves the breast while removing the tumor and surrounding tissue.
- Oncoplastic Lumpectomy and Mastectomy: During this procedure, plastic surgery is completed alongside removal of affected tissue for optimal medical and aesthetic outcomes.
- Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: While the majority of breast tissue is removed during this surgery, the nipple and areola are preserved.
- Immediate Reconstruction Mastectomy: A breast implant is utilized immediately after the removal of breast tissue in a single procedure.
Undergoing treatment is the best way to eliminate cancer, but it can also be a difficult time for you and your loved ones. The Breast and Women’s Center offers support during treatment and recovery with counseling and home care, as well as discharge planning, referrals and more to simplify the process.
Breast Cancer Research
Breast cancer treatment and diagnosis have grown substantially in recent history, and ongoing research and clinical trials continue this important work. At Richmond University Medical Center’s Comprehensive Breast and Imaging Center, our doctors can identify promising developments in these areas and help determine which might be most appropriate for you. You’ll also have access to the latest in medical technology to provide the most effective treatment possible.
And while this research is often complex and highly technical, our team is committed to helping you stay informed. Thanks to our family education library, you and your family will have easy access to essential information on breast cancer, treatment procedures and other topics from start to finish.
Counseling and Family Support
Cancer affects you and those that care about you. Help is available for you and your family including behavioral health services, discharge planning, home care, pastoral care, and referrals to hospice or community agencies.
A Dedicated Nurse Navigator
At our Comprehensive Breast and Imaging Center, we have a dedicated registered Nurse Navigator to provide you and your family support from the day of your diagnosis through survivorship and beyond. Our Nurse Navigator will provide compassionate care and guidance throughout treatment. Services include:
- Connecting patients to hospital, community, and social support services.
- Collaborating with other disciplines involved in cancer care.
- Identifying – and overcoming – barriers to your care.
- Personal follow-ups and encouragement throughout your continuum of care.
- Additional support that you and/or your family may need before, during and after treatment.
Get the Treatment You Deserve
If you’ve found a lump in your breast or have other concerns about breast health, it’s important to see a doctor right away. To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact Richmond University Medical Center’s Comprehensive Breast and Imaging Center today. We’re located at 1161 Victory Blvd at the corner of Victory Blvd and Clove Rd right here in Staten Island for easy access to the highest quality of care.
