Breast Cancer Care

If your mammogram results aren’t clear, your doctor may order extra tests to help confirm or rule out cancer. These tests include breast ultrasound or breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Diagnostic imaging allows doctors to better understand the type and stage of breast cancer. Advanced diagnostic imaging may include magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs), computed tomography (CT) scans, bone density scans and others. 

Breast biopsies confirm if breast cancer cells are present and the type of cancer cells they are. PeaceHealth offers several biopsies, including fine needle aspiration (FNA), core needle, surgical, lymph node and image-guided (also called stereotactic biopsy). You and your doctor will discuss which biopsy is right for you.

Breast cancer screenings check for lumps in breast tissue and other results that aren’t normal — which may or may not be cancer. Screenings may include:

• Breast exam by your doctor – Your doctor will feel for lumps or look for changes in your breast.
• Digital mammography – Traditional and 3D mammograms take pictures of the breast to look for early signs of cancer. They may detect cancer before you have symptoms.
• Breast ultrasound – A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create pictures of the breast. Some women with dense breasts or a high risk for cancer may be screened with ultrasound.

PeaceHealth provides several options based on your diagnosis. We offer:

• Sentinel node biopsy – Surgery to collect lymph nodes to determine if cancer has spread beyond the breast.
• Lumpectomy/partial mastectomy – Surgery to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue, or a part of the breast.
• Mastectomy – Surgery to remove one or both breasts.
• Breast reconstruction – Surgery to rebuild the look and shape of breasts after a mastectomy or lumpectomy.

Breast surgery treats both cancerous and non-cancerous (benign) conditions of the breast, such as infections and fibroids. Common procedures include lumpectomy and mastectomy.

Cancer treatment sometimes causes side effects. These may include trouble concentrating, lymphedema (swelling caused by lymph fluid buildup), chronic pain or weakened muscles. PeaceHealth offers a wide range of rehabilitation services to help you manage these problems and regain your strength.

Rehab therapy may include:

• Physical or occupational therapy – Programs can help improve function and mobility, adapt to lifestyle changes after surgery and rebuild strength.
• Lymphedema therapy – Certified specialists offer personalized support to help improve circulation and your range of motion.
• Feeding and swallowing therapy – Therapy to help you get back to easily chewing and swallowing food.
• Specialized rehabilitation – Therapy tailored to your needs and goals. This may include pulmonary rehab, cardiac rehab, balance and vestibular (inner ear) therapy or incontinence (bladder control) therapy.
• Neuropsychology – Testing and therapies to help improve concentration, thinking and focus.
• Wound care – Specialized care and help to manage surgery scars and wounds. This may include removing scar tissue (resection), hyperbaric oxygen therapy and others.
• Behavioral health therapies – Group or one-on-one sessions offer coping strategies for you and your loved ones.
• Pain rehabilitation therapies – Nonsurgical and interventional approach to manage pain using medicines, injections, biofeedback and other methods.

Regular cancer screening can mean early detection — and a better chance for survival. We offer the latest screening technologies for breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer and more.

Genetic testing helps women learn about their risk of breast cancer and protect their health with preventive measures. The comprehensive breast care program at PeaceHealth includes testing, diagnostic tools and counseling to empower and educate women.

Your cancer care team includes experienced providers from across specialties, led by your medical oncologist. These doctors specialize in oncology and hematology. They are here to share their insight and experience with you and your family.

Radiation therapy may help stop or slow cancer cell growth using high-energy beams. Often used along with other treatments, radiation therapy for breast cancer can include external beam radiation (outside the body) and internal beam radiation (inside the body, called brachytherapy). We offer advanced radiation that conforms to and targets your tumor, even if it moves. This can result in safer, more precise treatments. These include 3D conformal radiation and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).