Comprehensive breast cancer care at St. Joseph’s/Candler

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent health concerns for women, affecting millions globally and countless lives here in the United States. It’s a disease that doesn’t discriminate—any woman can be at risk, which is why early detection and access to expert care are essential for health and recovery. At St. Joseph's/Candler, we are committed to providing advanced breast care services to our community, offering the latest in early detection technology and support to help you stay healthy.

We understand how overwhelming a breast cancer diagnosis can feel for patients and their families. At St. Joseph's/Candler, your care is tailored to your unique needs. Our multidisciplinary team, including physicians, nutritionists and technologists, will guide you through every step of your journey. From diagnosis at the Telfair Pavilion or other SJ/C imaging service locations to treatment at the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion, we ensure you receive the best care backed by cutting-edge technology.

Our Approach Includes:

• Personalized treatment plans.
• Access to advanced technology like 3D mammography and breast MRI.
• Comprehensive support services to help you and your family navigate treatment.

Mobile Mammography Unit

St. Joseph's/Candler is proud to offer the “Screen Machine,” a state-of-the-art mobile mammography unit that provides digital breast cancer screenings to women in Savannah and surrounding rural areas. This innovative service ensures that women who may have difficulty accessing care at traditional facilities still have access to high-quality breast cancer screenings.

The Screen Machine provides the same level of care and accuracy as the Telfair Pavilion’s Comprehensive Breast Center, delivering digital images that are reviewed by expert radiologists. With onboard image processing, patients are assured their mammogram is technically accurate before leaving, offering peace of mind and eliminating the need for repeat visits. It accommodates routine and diagnostic mammograms, making it an adaptable solution for breast health needs.

With the Screen Machine, St. Joseph's/Candler is bringing breast care directly to the community, increasing access and promoting early detection for all women.

Insurance and financial assistance

St. Joseph's/Candler accepts most insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid and Champus/Tricare. Please check with your insurance provider on your plan benefits and in-network coverage. Financial assistance is available for uninsured women aged 40 and older who meet certain income qualifications. This ensures that cost is never a barrier to receiving potentially life-saving screenings.

Available advanced breast imaging services

Our state-of-the-art breast imaging services include:

Digital Mammography
Digital mammograms capture images electronically, allowing for adjustments that enhance clarity. This technology is particularly effective for detecting abnormalities in dense breast tissue. Digital images can also be shared more easily with specialists for second opinions, ensuring a thorough approach to your care. Digital mammography uses less radiation compared to traditional methods, making it a safer option for routine screenings.

3D Mammography
3D mammography is a revolutionary imaging method that increases cancer detection rates by up to 30% and reduces the likelihood of false positives. Unlike traditional mammograms, 3D mammography takes multiple images of the breast from different angles, creating a detailed three-dimensional picture. This method is especially helpful for women at higher risk for breast cancer. With its enhanced clarity, 3D mammography allows radiologists to identify defects that may be missed on standard images.

Breast Ultrasound
Ultrasound helps distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts, providing critical information for diagnosis. It is useful for evaluating areas of concern found during a mammogram or physical exam. Unlike mammography, breast ultrasound does not use radiation, making it a safe diagnostic tool for pregnant women and those with sensitivities to X-rays. It is often used in combination with other imaging techniques to provide a complete assessment.

CAD (Computer-Aided Detection)
This technology analyzes mammograms for suspicious areas and highlights them for radiologists, enhancing accuracy in cancer detection. CAD serves as a second set of eyes, reducing the likelihood of missed diagnoses, especially in dense or complex breast tissue. By pinpointing potential abnormalities, CAD allows radiologists to focus on areas that may require further investigation, which could improve early detection rates and recovery outcomes.

Core Needle Biopsy
This minimally invasive procedure removes tissue samples for analysis using ultrasound guidance. Core needle biopsies are performed with precision and are often an alternative to surgical biopsy, reducing recovery time and discomfort. The procedure typically requires only local anesthesia, and results are usually available within a few days, allowing patients to move quickly with appropriate care if necessary.

Galactogram
Also called a ductogram, this specialized test involves injecting dye into a milk duct to investigate abnormal nipple discharge. The dye enhances the visibility of the milk ducts on X-rays, helping to pinpoint any blockages or irregularities. Galactograms are particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as intraductal papillomas or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), ensuring timely and accurate treatment.

Needle Localization
For tiny abnormalities detected on a mammogram, a fine wire is used to mark the area before surgical removal. This process ensures that the surgeon can accurately locate and remove the targeted tissue while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible. Needle localization is a highly precise technique, often used when abnormalities are too small to be felt or seen during surgery.

Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
Ideal for detecting microcalcifications and other subtle changes, this method combines mammography and computer technology for precise tissue sampling. It is a less invasive alternative to open surgical biopsy and is typically performed under local anesthesia. The procedure is highly accurate and involves minimal downtime, allowing patients to quickly resume normal activities.

Take charge of your breast health today. Call 912-819-6800 or log in to the SJ/C Patient Portal to schedule your mammogram.

For financial assistance inquiries, contact the Mammography Fund Hotline at 912-819-7055.

Why accreditation matters for your care

Choosing an accredited breast care center means choosing excellence. St. Joseph's/Candler’s Telfair Pavilion is recognized by the American College of Radiology (ACR) as a Comprehensive Breast Imaging Center, a designation given to facilities that meet rigorous national standards for quality and patient care.

What does Our Accreditations Mean for You?

FDA Certification under the Mammography Quality Standards Act ensures the highest level of safety and accuracy in mammography.

Accreditation in Breast MRI, Breast Ultrasound, and Digital and 3D Mammography means our imaging capabilities are among the best in the nation.

Stereotactic Breast Biopsy accreditation ensures you receive minimally invasive diagnostic options with precision and care.

These recognitions confirm our commitment to offering state-of-the-art breast cancer detection and imaging services you can trust.