Breast cancer

Breast cancer screening

Breast cancer screening is one of the most proactive steps you can take in the early detection of breast cancer. Our hospitals offer a complete spectrum of breast imaging services, including:

• 3D mammography
• Breast density assessment
• Breast ultrasound
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Breast cancer diagnosis

Our breast center staff will contact you with your screening results, as well as explain and schedule any additional diagnostic testing. A positive breast cancer diagnosis is found through a biopsy (an examination of the breast tissue). A breast biopsy tells your treatment team about the type of breast cancer you have and helps your physician determine the optimal individualized treatment plan to get you on the road to recovery.

Breast cancer treatments we offer

We offer an array of treatment options for breast cancer that can help you get back to your family and everyday life, including access to advanced breast cancer therapies and clinical trials.

Your breast cancer treatment plan may include:

• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy
  • Aromatase inhibitors
  • Estrogen blockers
• Radiation therapy
  • Accelerated partial breast irradiation
  • Brachytherapy
  • External beam therapy
  • Hypofractionated radiotherapy
  • Intensity modulated radiotherapy
  • Prone breast radiotherapy
• Surgery
  • Axillary node dissection
  • Breast reconstructive surgery
  • Lumpectomy
  • Mastectomy
  • Sentinel lymph node biopsy

Learn more about the treatment options we offer for breast cancer.

Breast conserving surgery

Our skilled breast cancer surgeons and radiologists use an advanced radar localization system to precisely locate and guide the removal of the target tissue during a lumpectomy or surgical biopsy procedure.

This technology features radar to detect a reflector that is placed at the tumor site up to seven days before a procedure. During the procedure, the surgeon scans the breast using the system's guide, which emits infrared light and a micro-impulse signal to detect the location of the reflector.

Real-time audible and visual indicators assist the surgeon in accurately locating the reflector, along with the target tissue. This higher level of precision allows the surgeon to plan a surgical approach that may result in a better cosmetic outcome than other methods.

Breast cancer care

Our breast cancer team integrates education and support into your care to ensure you stay informed and comfortable throughout your cancer journey.

We offer a broad range of breast cancer services, including:

• A breast imaging navigator and breast cancer nurse navigator
• Access to clinical trials
• Access to our American Cancer Society Cancer Resource Center
• Genetic testing services to identify your risk for breast cancer
• Lymphedema services
• Oncology social workers
• Rehabilitation services to help improve your quality of life
• Spiritual support with an oncology-dedicated chaplain
• Support groups to guide you on your cancer journey
• Survivorship care plan and treatment summary

While most often present in women, breast cancer can also occur in men. Breast cancer can return over time and may affect other sites in the body besides breast tissue.

Our breast cancer team

We take a breast cancer diagnosis seriously, and we aim to provide you with the best care possible. That's why we bring together a team of specialists to give you the specialized care you deserve. Our breast cancer team includes:

• Breast and plastic surgeons
• Breast cancer nurse navigators
• Breast radiologists
• Mammography and ultrasound technician
• Medical and radiation oncologists

Breast cancer nurse navigators

Your breast cancer nurse navigator will work closely with you and your care team to ensure you understand all your options and receive the care, education and support you need. Your nurse navigator will also coordinate appointments with your care team and guide you through any further testing or high-risk counseling.

High-risk breast clinics

Henrico Doctors' Hospital and Johnston-Willis Hospital are home to a high-risk breast clinics. For women who have an increased likelihood of developing breast cancer, our clinics provide them with access to supplemental screenings to help detect the disease in its earliest stages.

Our breast health specialists work together to identify if you should be considered high risk and if you should consider supplemental screenings, such as:

• Abbreviated breast magnetic resonance imaging (ABMRI)
• Contrast mammogram (CEM)
• Whole breast ultrasound

About HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network

Fighting cancer takes a team

HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network delivers you exceptional cancer care through cutting-edge, specialized treatments, multidisciplinary collaboration and care that is tailored to you. Our teams of passionate caregivers and global oncology experts across the United States and United Kingdom offer services and expertise that extend across many types of cancer. Together with the full support of HCA Healthcare – a leading provider of cancer care and research – we’re with you and your family from diagnosis through survivorship.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH (804) 591-4152.