Better Breast Health -- 618.463.7647

Getting a mammogram makes some women a little nervous and self-conscious. So Alton Memorial Hospital redesigned a space to create the Breast Health Institute.

"Our mammography suite in the Breast Health Institute is designed with women's comfort and privacy in mind, with private dressing and waiting rooms," says Doug Pytlinski, vice president, administration. "As we go forward, we'll be adding amenities to make the experience more pleasant for women. We want women to feel comfortable coming here for their annual mammograms as part of their overall preventive care and wellness."

Alton Memorial now offers digital stereotactic biopsy. A biopsy may be necessary if a suspicious lump is found on a mammogram. Stereotactic means that the breast biopsy path is imaged from two directions to pinpoint exactly where the surgeon needs to direct the biopsy needle. Small samples of tissue are removed from the breast using a needle or biopsy device guided to the location using X-ray imaging and computer coordinates. The breast tissue is sent to the lab.

Alton Memorial will soon offer more one-on-one care with a navigator for patients. "In creating the Breast Health Institute, we decided patients will be better served with an advocate to streamline their care," says Pytlinski. "A navigator will be a good solution."

A navigator's job is to help a patient if a screening mammogram is abnormal. The navigator takes patients through the health care experience and coordinates follow-up procedures and appointments. Alton Memorial will be the only Hospital in the River Bend area to offer a navigator for patients.