The Connie Dwyer Breast Center Introduces Rapid Diagnosis Program for Breast Cancer

NEWARK, N.J. — The Connie Dwyer Breast Center at Saint Michael’s Medical Center has announced the launch of a Rapid Diagnosis program that enables patients who have a breast biopsy to receive their results and diagnosis that same day. No other hospital in the region has the ability to provide such a prompt diagnosis, which spares patients the fear and anxiety caused by long wait times.

Breast cancer affects one out of eight women, and is most often discovered through mammography testing. When an abnormality is found, a biopsy is performed. Though definitive test results can typically take days, patients at The Connie Dwyer Breast Center who receive a biopsy in the morning can receive their results that day. Patients with a cancer diagnosis can then receive information immediately about medical treatment options and support services available. The Rapid Diagnosis program makes use of a PELORIS Rapid Tissue Processing unit, a Leica BOND Staining unit, and a Nikon dual-view microscope with a digital camera system. The Breast Center’s successful Harvest of Hope dinner dance, which was held this month at Mayfair Farms in West Orange, raised more than $250,000 to fund the purchase of the technology necessary to implement the program.

“The addition of the Rapid Diagnosis program at The Connie Dwyer Breast Center is part of our ongoing effort to provide the latest and best diagnostic care and treatment available anywhere,” said Robert Evans, CEO of Saint Michael’s Medical Center.

Those interested in receiving more information about supporting The Connie Dwyer Breast Center can contact Janet Lesko, director of development, at (973) 877-2624.

Established by the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor in 1867, Saint Michael’s Medical Center is a 357-bed regional tertiary-care, teaching and research center in the heart of Newark’s business and educational district. The Saint James Campus in Newark’s East Ward and the Columbus Campus in the North Ward deliver key non-acute services, including 24-hour emergency care. They serve as a “front door” to the inpatient, outpatient, and clinic services available at Saint Michael’s Medical Center. More information is available at www.smmcnj.org. Saint Michael’s Medical Center is a member of Catholic Health East, a Catholic health system sponsored by 10 religious congregations and Hope Ministries, based in Newtown Square, PA. More information is available at www.che.org.