Dedication to breast health is a key extension of the full approach to care at Magee-Womens, UPMC Hamot.
The UPMC Hamot Breast Center, which includes the expertise of both Bayview Breast Care at UPMC Hamot and UPMC Hamot Breast Imaging, provides an entire network of health resources for prevention, detection, and treatment in every area of breast health. Caring for women for life means trusted experience in every stage of a woman’s life.
Accreditation
Our center is fully accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers through the American College of Surgeons. Accreditation by the NAPBC is only given to centers that voluntarily commit to provide the highest level of quality breast care and undergo a rigorous evaluation process and review of their performance. NAPBC accreditation provides value across all domains of care, including access to care and service, patient satisfaction and well-being, and quality of cancer care.
Breast Imaging
In addition, UPMC Hamot Breast Imaging has been designated as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology. This designation is given to imaging centers that meet all requirements in a full range of breast imaging services.
Radioactive Seed Localization
Radioactive seed localization (RSL) streamlines the process for identifying and surgically removing abnormal breast tissue and lesions at their earliest stages. By implanting a radioactive seed about the size of a small grain of rice, radiologists can pinpoint nonpalpable breast tumors so breast surgeons can easily locate and remove them later.
The seed may be implanted in the breast tissue up to five days before surgery. The surgeon then uses a tool similar to a Geiger counter to locate the seed and remove the identified tissue
Benefits of RSL include:
- Accuracy of marking the only the tissue that needs to be removed
- Surgery resulting in less scarring, since more of the healthy tissue may be left intact.
Early Detection is Key
At UPMC Hamot, we believe in encouraging education and understanding about breast health through various community outreach events. Breast self-awareness provides women with the information they need. The right knowledge can empower a woman of any age to take potentially life-saving action.
Meeting Your Personal Needs
Regardless of the severity of your breast cancer, the UPMC Hamot Breast Health Program dedicates resources and professionals to every aspect of your treatment, recovery, and survivorship. We also offer additional services that help patients and families through the process.
Some of these therapeutic and psychological services for breast cancer include:
- Lymphedema specialists
- Massage therapy
- Physical therapy
- Psychosocial counseling
- Palliative care
- Programs, in partnership with the American Cancer Society, such as:
If you have questions or concerns regarding your breast health, we encourage you to talk to your physician or health care provider. You can also reach our helpful nurse navigators at 814-877-3900.
