Imaging Archives | Cayuga Medical Center

Oct 13 Comments Off

Test detects lung cancer at its most treatable stage

Posted by jprobert

By Walter Silbert, MD

Lung cancer causes more cancer-related deaths each year in Tompkins and surrounding counties than any other type of cancer. The most important risk factor for the disease is smoking, which results in approximately 85 percent of all U.S. lung cancer cases. One of the reasons it remains so lethal is that lung cancer is not typically discovered until a patient develops symptoms at which point successful treatment is less likely. In fact Lung cancer diagnosed in its late stages has a poor prognosis and 90 percent will die from the disease. Fortunately, when lung cancer is detected early in the disease process — before the onset of symptoms — it is more responsive to treatment and patients often have a longer life expectancy.

Oct 13 Comments Off

Digital Mammography Available Locally

Posted by jprobert

By William Carroll, MD, PhD

In September 2005, the New England Journal of Medicine posted the results of a large clinical trial comparing digital and film mammography. The National Cancer Institute (NCI), which is part of the National Institutes of Health, sponsored the trial. Researchers conducted the study under the leadership of the American College of Radiology Imaging Network.

Oct 12 Comments Off

The Current Debate on Breast Density

Posted by jprobert

By William Carroll, MD, PhD

There is a national debate about whether or not women should be notified directly if there is a finding of “dense breasts” on their mammogram. This issue is generating quite a bit of discussion not only among physicians but among state and federal legislators, as well.

Oct 12 Comments Off

Local MRI Capabilities Stronger Than Ever

Posted by jprobert

By Walter Silbert, MD

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most advanced imaging technologies in use today. It produces exquisitely clear images of organs and structures inside the body, providing valuable information in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of medical problems.

Oct 12 Comments Off

Maintaining a Safe Environment

Posted by jprobert

From the Imaging Services Department

Patients often ask about the radiation exposure of various imaging studies and how much exposure is safe. Safety for patients and caregivers alike are top-of-mind concerns for doctors and technologists in the field of imaging and radiation services. Stringent departmental quality assurance requirements, along with regular inspections and outside audits, help to ensure the safest possible environment.

Oct 12 Comments Off

Screening for Colon Cancer Can Save Your Life

Posted by jprobert

By Steven Rogers, MD

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer, and the second most common cause of cancer death. Five percent of the population in this country will develop it. Symptoms of colon cancer show up quite late in the disease process, mainly because the colon can accommodate a large tumor before bleeding or bowel-movement changes occur. The good news is that colon cancer is really preventable.

Oct 12 Comments Off

Have You Had Your Annual Mammogram?

Posted by jprobert

By Kim Hwang, MD

Early detection and treatment is still our number one defense against losing lives to breast cancer. This means that monthly self-examination and yearly mammograms for women after the age of 40 save lives. And while the vast majority of breast cancers occur in women, a small percentage of men are also at risk for this form of cancer and should periodically check for lumps or alterations in appearance and follow up with the doctor should any changes occur.

Oct 12 Comments Off

Portable Bone Densitometry Scanning Provides Fast, Easy Screening

Posted by jprobert

By Kim Hwang, MD

Early detection and treatment of osteoporosis can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life and level of activity as they age into their senior years. A bone densitometry scan is a painless imaging test that accurately measures bone density and can be a useful tool in preventing and treating osteoporosis. Bone densitometry scans, also known as DEXA scans, are performed at both Convenient Care Centers in Ithaca and Cortland, and at Cayuga Medical Center.

Oct 12 Comments Off

Imaging Services Play Key Role in Breast Health Care

Posted by jprobert

By Rick Kidwell

Breast care is a high priority at Cayuga Medical Center: the scope and quality of local imaging services reflects a serious commitment to women’s health care. In developing our breast health care program, Cayuga Medical Center addressed five major components to meet the needs of area women.

Oct 12 Comments Off

Advances in Radiation Therapy Ease Treatment

Posted by jprobert

By John Powell, MD

The American Cancer Society projects a total of 1,660,290 new cancer cases and 580,350 cancer deaths in the United States in 2013. It is encouraging that overall cancer death rates in the U.S. have declined 20 percent from the peak in 1991, yet cancer remains one of our greatest public health challenges, as well as a life-changing diagnosis for patients.