October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the team of specialists who treat breast cancer at Maimonides Medical Center joined together to kick-off the month with a flag-raising ceremony, outside the hospital’s main entrance on Tenth Avenue in Brooklyn.
In 2016, it is estimated that there will be 246,660 new cases of invasive breast cancer among U.S. women, and 40,450 breast cancer deaths – according to the American Cancer Society.
“It is extremely important for women to get annual screenings and mammograms – early detection is key in increasing the survival rate among breast cancer patients,” says Dr. Patrick Borgen, Chair of the Department of Surgery and Director of the Maimonides Breast Center.
The Maimonides Breast Cancer Center is Brooklyn’s ONLY fully accredited Breast Center, as designated by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) administered by the American College of Surgeons. Housed in the Gilbert Rivera Pavilion at 745 64th Street, our Breast Cancer Center has everything women need to combat this disease.
Additionally, the American College of Radiology has designated our Center as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence. Our patients can rely upon our superb physicians and their state-of-the-art imaging machines to provide superior care, from screenings and treatment to surgery and recovery.
“We receive more than 7,500 patient visits annually and our facility provides one place that meets all of our patients’ treatment needs,” explains Dr. Borgen. “And our staff’s team-mentality allows patients to feel a real sense of family and support – the warmth and camaraderie engendered here are the special ingredients that truly set us apart.”
The stunning $8.6 million facility fulfills the need for highly-specialized breast cancer services in Brooklyn. Located in a 14,750 square foot, eco-friendly space, the Center’s LED lighting and energy efficient heating/ventilation/air-conditioning systems offer patients a comfortable environment. The feature many patients appreciate most, though, is the spa-like décor with interior landscaping that includes a waterfall feature and soothing music.
State-of-the-art technology at our Breast Center includes: 3T MRI with advanced breast imaging and biopsy capability; three full-field digital mammography units (including tomosynthesis); Breast Specific Gamma Imaging unit; stereotactic breast biopsy unit; and three ultrasound units optimized for breast imaging and ultrasound-guided breast biopsy.
The Maimonides Breast Center offers comprehensive screening, diagnostic, medical and surgical breast services, as well as nutrition and genetic counseling, and a full array of psycho-social support for patients and families. Treatment team members are deeply committed to offering patients every significant advantage in their battle against breast disease by providing them with the highest level of quality breast care. Members of the medical staff, many of whom are renowned nationally, are skilled and experienced – all collaborating in multidisciplinary teams to devise the best individualized treatment plan for each patient.
The Maimonides Cancer Center itself is fully accredited by American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. To learn more about the Breast Cancer Center at Maimonides, call (718) 765-2550 or visit http://www.maimonidesmed.org/cancercenter/BreastCancer.aspx.
