Hanover Hospital Mammography Machine (Photo provided by Hanover and District Hospital)
A new state of the art mammography system has been installed at the Hanover and District Hospital (HDH).
The HDH says they celebrated the installation of the machine and ribbon cutting ceremony on Dec. 14 with the Hanover and District Hospital Foundation.
The new Senographic Pristina Mammography System makes use of advanced technology to provide detailed 3D visuals of the entire breast. The machine will also provide a speedier diagnosis and subsequent treatment of breast cancer.
HDH says in some instances, it will also provide a diagnosis before symptoms present themselves.
The new machine was funded through a endowment donation of $660,000 made by the late Alleene Lambertus. HDH says the funds not only covered the cost of the mammography machine, but also the room renovation and the purchase of Magseed Magnestic Seed Localization technology.
HDH says Magseed is a small metal seed made out of surgical grade stainless steel, smaller than a grain of rice, and operates as a marker. Radiologists and surgeons will be able to mark and remove small and early stage breast cancers with great precision. The seed will remain in place and can be inserted days, weeks or months before the operation.
Before the use of this technology, a guidewire was inserted into the tumour to mark the tissue for removal during surgery. It was found the wires were unstable and would frequently need to be removed and repositioned, which resulted in surgical delays and unwarranted stress for patients.
HDH President and CEO Dana Howes says, “we are very proud to have this new mammography machine that offers this advanced technology. It will enhance breast cancer screening and its management for our patients. Our partnership with the Grey Bruce Health Services radiology group has enabled our hospital to advance the surgical care of breast cancer patients. We are so proud to offer this initiative technology in our rural Hospital.”
Foundation Board Chair Katrina Wilson adds, the generosity of the community is the heart and soul of the hospital.
“We rely on endowment gifts to strengthen our foundation and provide an investment for the future. Alleene’s gift is incredibly generous and gives us a glimpse into the capabilities of this community,” says Wilson.