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| What We Do
Unfortunately, since breast cancer strikes approximately one in nine women during their lifetimes, that fear is a reality for many. When the diagnosis or treatment of breast cancer and other breast disorders requires surgery, The Division of Breast Surgery, in The Department of Surgery at Hackensack University Medical Center, employs the most technologically advanced modalities to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients. To obtain vital information about each patient's disease, surgeons can perform a variety of minimally-invasive procedures, including fine needle aspiration and core biopsies, often receiving results within two to three hours. This information, coupled with physical exams, ultrasounds, mammographies and all available results from previous procedures, are taken into consideration when mapping out the most effective course of action for each patient. For patients in the early stages of breast cancer, the division also offers a state-of-the-art diagnostic procedure called Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy. This new test is an extremely accurate method of determining if cancer has spread, and it may spare the patient from more extensive surgical procedures that can lead to lymphedema and other complications. Patients who are having the procedure can click here for more information and instructions. When breast cancer is confirmed and thoroughly evaluated, breast surgeons may suggest one of the following surgical procedures to treat the disease:
If a mastectomy is necessary, many patients have the option of undergoing breast reconstruction as well. The procedure can be performed immediately after breast removal, or several months, or even years later. The new breast can be created using a prosthetic breast implant, tissue acquired from another part of the patient’s body, or a combination of both. Many factors impact a patient’s ability to have reconstructive surgery, including her lifestyle, overall health, emotional condition, and breast size and shape. When breast reconstruction is considered, breast surgeons work closely with physicians at Hackensack University Medical Center’s Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery to provide comprehensive care. Click here for more information on breast reconstruction following mastectomy at the medical center. A multi-disciplinary breast care team meets weekly to discuss the fine details and progress of each breast cancer patient's case to determine the effectiveness of treatment, and to consider necessary modifications to optimize health. An altered body image and changes in appearance that can occur during cancer treatment can have a negative impact on the patient. To help patients cope with these changes, Hackensack University Medical Center offers The Ellen H. Lazar Shoppe on Fifth, a boutique located near The Betty Torricelli Institute for Breast Care, which specializes in items such as wigs, mastectomy bras, hard-to-find products geared toward cancer survivors, as well as fashionable merchandise for patients, family members, and friends. |
