Breast Health

3D mammograms

Schedule online or by phone

Our patients are able to benefit from the latest advancements in digital breast imaging.

Mother, sister, daughter. That’s how we treat every woman who walks through our doors for breast healthcare – like she is a member of our Firelands family.

The Center for Breast Care at Firelands Regional Medical Center provides a full spectrum of breast care, including breast exams and mammography for those in Norwalk, Sandusky, Huron, Fremont, and nearby. We understand the unique healthcare concerns of women and are dedicated to meeting their specific needs.

Our breast health services include:

Diagnosis

Imaging

2D/3D digital mammography
SmartCurve system for comfort
Breast Ultrasound
Galactogram
Bone density scan
Breast MRI
Lymph node imaging (sentinel node)
PET/CT
Self-referral mammogram appointments accepted

Breast biopsies

Biopsy/aspiration guided by a breast ultrasound
Stereotactic core breast biopsy
MRI-guided breast biopsy
Radioactive seed breast localization
Surgical biopsy

Imaging services

SmartCurve system

The Center for Beast Care offers the latest in mammogram comfort with SmartCurve. The SmartCurve system provides a curved compression surface that offers a more comfortable patient experience without compromising image quality, exam time, or dose.

Digital mammography with 3D option

An annual screening mammogram is recommended for all women aged 40 and over. Whether you're looking for 3D mammography in Norwalk, Sandusky, Huron, Fremont, or nearby, you can find it here. The goal of screening this breast exam is to detect cancer when it is still too small to be felt. If the patient has a strong family or personal history of breast cancer, or if there are any noticeable changes, a diagnostic mammogram may be performed. Learn more about our 3D mammography services here.

Breast ultrasound and ultrasound-guided biopsy

Using high-frequency sound waves to visualize the breast, breast ultrasound is most commonly used to evaluate abnormalities, such as cysts or solid masses. The ultrasound-guided biopsy is helpful in evaluating lumps that can be felt but are difficult to see on a mammogram. It is performed using a local anesthetic. Benefits of this less-invasive breast exam include minimal scarring and immediate return to normal activities.

Stereotactic breast biopsy

This biopsy uses stereotactic guidance or computerized imaging of the breast from different angles to determine the precise location of an abnormality. This biopsy is performed using a local anesthetic. Benefits of this less-invasive biopsy include minimal scarring and immediate return to normal activities.

Bone densitometry (DEXA Scan)

Until recently, osteoporosis often went undiagnosed, progressing silently over the years, until a fracture occurred. With the development of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, early diagnosis is possible and fractures associated with this disease can be prevented. In this safe, painless 10-minute scan, minimal radiation is used to determine the bone density of the spine, hip, or forearm.

Lab work

If your physician has ordered lab work, you can have your blood drawn in the Center for Breast Care. Simply present your lab work orders when you arrive for your other services.

Surgical services

General

Lumpectomy
Partial mastectomy
Modified radical mastectomy
Skin sparing mastectomies
Nipple-sparing mastectomies
Sentinel lymph node biopsy
Immediate breast reconstruction

Plastic/reconstructive surgery

Implant-based
TRAM flap
Latissimus dorsi flap
Fat transfer/grafting
Nipple reconstruction
Breast reduction

Oncology care

Medical oncology

Chemotherapy
Endocrine therapy
Targeted therapy (biologic therapy)
Clinical trials
Survivorship
Weekly multidisciplinary breast cancer conference
Fertility preservation (by referral)

Radiation oncology

External beam radiology (3D CRT, FIF, IMRT)
Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI-EBRT)
Peer review of all treatment plans with University Hospitals
Clinical trials

Cancer rehabilitation

Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
Speech therapy
Lymphedema management
Physical medicine and rehabilitation

Integrative medicine

Massage* and Reiki*
Guided imagery *(by referral)
Pet therapy
From Cancer to Health program (stress management and coping intervention in collaboration with Firelands Counseling and Recovery Services)
Acupuncture*(by referral)

*The Foundation for Firelands provides funding for these services.

Supportive care and symptom management

Nutritional services
Social work services
Pain management
Genetic counseling
Look Good... Feel Better*
Palliative medicine (by referral to Stein Palliative Medicine)
Patient Navigator to assist with barriers to care and coordinate assistance
Reach to Recovery*
Video conference ability with University Hospitals tumor board

*In collaboration with the American Cancer Society.

Lactation services

Lactation specialists with consultations available
Return to work program

Breast exam

Changes that should be reported:

The signs of breast cancer are not the same for all women. It is essential to know how your breasts normally look and feel so you are able to notice any changes. What to look for in a self-breast exam:

Lump, hard knot, or thickening inside the breast or underarm area
Change in the size or shape of the breast
itchy, scaly sore, or rash on the nipple
Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
Swelling, warmth, redness, or darkening of the breast
Dimpling or puckering of the skin
Pulling of your nipple or other parts of the breast
New pain in one spot that does not go away

Get screened

Talk to your healthcare provider about what screening tests are right for you. If you do not have a primary care provider call 419-557-5591
Have a mammogram every year starting at the age of 40
Have a clinic breast exam at least every three years starting at age 20, and every year starting at age 40

Here for you every step of the way

No matter your breast health needs, you will not be alone as you navigate our breast care services. Our Community Health Workers are available to support you within your community. While not medical professionals, these women act as natural support systems for the community. They connect with the local minority and senior citizen populations to identify individuals who are in need of screening, such as 3D mammography and self-referral mammograms, in Norwalk, Sandusky or elsewhere and encourage them to get screened. They will also help these individuals navigate through the healthcare system.

Once you arrive at Firelands Regional Medical Center, our patient navigator is here to help you and your family “navigate” the healthcare services and provider referrals. No need to worry about figuring out where to go, who to see, or what tests to have done. This also helps to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment between all members of the multidisciplinary team.