Breast Specific Gamma Imaging

Breast Specific Gamma Imaging (BSGI) is an important new technique that identifies abnormal metabolic activity in areas of breast tissue, aiding in the differentiation of benign and malignant masses. Variations in tissue density have little effect on BSGI’s ability to detect small breast cancers, thereby providing a valuable adjunct to understanding the significance of questionable findings detected by mammography or ultrasound, or in finding subtle abnormalities that may not be apparent by mammography or ultrasound.

"Breast-Specific Gamma Imaging
is an adjunct diagnostic
procedure when post-mammogram
evaluation is indicated."

Although mammography remains the most valuable screening tool in breast cancer detection, BSGI offers a valuable "next step measure" in the diagnostic workup of suspicious and difficult-to-interpret cases.  It provides a highly sensitive method for detecting suspicious areas of abnormal metabolic activity in patients who present with:

• Dense breast tissue
• Multiple suspicious or questionable findings on mammography or ultrasound
• Palpable concerns with no abnormal mammography or ultrasound findings
• Post-surgical changes that appear suspicious
• Palpable concerns that may be masked by the breast implants

The Dilon 6800® gamma camera

Pairing mammography and BSGI in the workup of clinical or imaging concerns provides the radiologist with a powerful new approach to detecting subtle breast cancers or to have reassurance that the presence of breast cancer is highly unlikely.

The extremely high sensitivity of BSGI enables the elimination of many unnecessary biopsies and much needless anxiety.

When patients have diagnostic breast imaging studies performed at the Pacific Breast Center they learn of the results from the radiologist immediately after the studies are completed, avoiding the lengthy wait for results or scheduling appropriate management that may be required.

BSGI is also a powerful tool for determining the extent of local disease and the appropriateness of breast conservation therapy.