MDNews - Central New York

COVER FEATURE detection software that facilitates more accurate processing of the images, and MRI-guided biopsy capabilities. These technologies are supported by a high level of experience among the interpreting physicians, a select group of MDR radiologists who ensure that the practice follows the evidence-based practices and guidelines established by the American Cancer Society and the American College of Radiology. Once a patient undergoes a breast MRI, an MDR radiologist sends the referring physician a report on the same day or, should the imaging exam result in a suspicious finding, calls the physician. The specialized radiologists can contribute to shaping the next steps of a patient's diagnostic or thera- peutic course, whether that includes additional conventional imaging such as mammography or ultrasound, undergoing an image-guided biopsy or scheduling a consultation with a surgeon. "The cases are all different, and the needs of the patients can be different, which means there is not one standard workup," says Stephen Montgomery, M.D., Medical Director of the Crouse Hospital Breast Health Center and radiologist at MDR. "Each approach is tailored to the individual patient's previous history, current findings and the recommendat ions going forward. We are intimately involved in that process." Despite the present-day incorpora- MDR radiologic technologist Kate Walsh with a GE high-definition MRI scanner. other medical providers so that we can ensure that we have the appropriate MRI resources." The Power of Foresight Breast MRI scans are now an integral diagnostic and screening modality for patients with a high risk for developing breast cancer, patients with dense 8 | Central New York MD NEWS ■ MDNEWS.COM breast tissue, for whom other screening technologies can't provide adequately accurate images, and recently diag- nosed breast cancer patients who need more information about the extent of their cancer. MDR's breast MRI tools include dedicated breast coils that allow radiologists to examine both breasts at the same time, computer-aided tion of MRI technology in national breast screening recommendations, the imaging modality was not listed in the American Cancer Society's guidelines until 2007. MDR recognized the technology's potential a full decade earlier and began offering the screen- ing to patients without the promise of financial gain. "MDR took a leap of faith in getting the first coil. At the time, many insur- ance carriers considered MRI of the breast an investigational procedure," says Dr. Montgomery. "It took a

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