STATE-OF-THE-ART mammography equipment is being handed over to Abbotsford Regional Hospital: mammography machine and MOLLI magnets (radiation-free technology for breast cancer surgery).
This project has been generously, and entirely, supported by The Crystal Gala Foundation — a group of dedicated women that raise funds to benefit local people fighting and living with breast cancer.
Mammography is a specialized medical imaging, screening tool, which uses a low-dose ex-ray system to see inside the breasts. A mammography exam aids in breast cancer screening and diagnostic purposes.
In addition to the mammography machine, the hospital now has cutting-edge technology available for patients-in-care requiring surgery. The Canadian designed MOLLI magnet device has replaced the previous wire technology. The less invasive breast cancer surgery technique works by being inserted into the breast tumor wherein the surgeon uses a wand to locate the magnet allowing an effective process of identifying the location of where to perform the surgery.
Corlea Smit, interim supervisor, mammography department, says: “This equipment is entirely for the patient’s benefit. It offers an alternative for a procedure that is jarring and scary looking at a time where patients are already dealing with the extreme anxiety of a possible breast cancer diagnosis. The ability to use a tiny little seed marker placed within the breast at the patient’s convenience means that she doesn’t have to add another procedure to her surgery day, and it is overall less invasive than the current practice.”
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in Canadian women and regular mammograms help detect breast cancer earlier and indicate a higher rate of survival. Yet many women do not carry out regular self-examinations, possibility due to discomfort or fear.
However, with the addition of the new state-of-the-art equipment donated by The Crystal Gala Foundation, a more efficient and less physically intrusive system is possible. The new equipment enhances patient care and will ultimately help to reduce stress and anxiety, and, as Smit puts it: “Any change we can make in breast health to support our patients’ ability to feel less anxious and cope well is a win!”
Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation relies on gifts from the community to strengthen the organisation and provide an investment for people’s future health and wellness. To support projects like this one, contact Dr. Jassal at 778-552-5117 or email: Lakhbir.Jassal@fraserhealth.ca.
To support the amazing work carried out by The Crystal Gala Foundation, visit their website to learn more: www.crystalgala.ca/
