Abbotsford hospital expands breast cancer imaging services

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CHILLIWACK — Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre conducts more than 22,000 breast imaging exams each year, including screening, diagnostic and ultrasound procedures, playing a key role in early breast cancer detection and care in the region. That role is growing with the expansion of its Diagnostic and Screening Mammography and Breast Ultrasound departments.

Last spring it introduced 3D tomosynthesis mammography. “Although 3D tomosynthesis diagnostic mammography is not new and is available at other Fraser Health hospitals, it continues to be an essential tool for detecting small, early density changes,” said Corlea Smit, supervisor of mammography at the hospital. “This technology has detected cancers in recent months that would have otherwise gone unnoticed until they progressed further.”

The hospital has also added contrast-enhanced diagnostic mammography, becoming the first in Fraser Health and the third in B.C. to combine precision imaging with contrast enhancement.

Smit said extremely dense breasts have historically been the most challenging for early detection through routine mammography, even with 3D tomosynthesis. Contrast-enhanced diagnostic mammography improves imaging by eliminating the overlap of healthy and harmful tissues, making it easier to detect cancers.

A news release from Fraser Health, says the hospital has also introduced additional equipment and features, including two dedicated breast ultrasound rooms, pink stretchers, ultrasound chairs and new speakers, all donated by the Crystal Gala Foundation. The redesigned space aims to help patients feel more comfortable.

“Those small details make a world of difference and have a calming effect on a person while going through the necessary testing for a breast cancer diagnosis,” said Elsie Teichrob, a breast cancer patient.

“We have an incredible, close-knit team of sonographers, mammographers and radiologists dedicated to providing the best care for our patients as we strive to diagnose breast cancer,” said Charmaine Bergen, a breast sonographer. “We are honoured and humbled to offer these exciting and hugely impactful services to the residents of the Fraser Valley.”