Nearly every breast cancer patient will have a surgical procedure as part of their treatment. Our surgical team is among the most experienced in the region, providing extraordinary care in breast conservation surgery and reconstruction techniques as well as procedures to preserve lymph nodes. This team includes breast cancer surgeons, general surgeons and plastic surgeons who offer years of experience and who have trained at some of the top university hospitals.
Community Healthcare System hospitals offer expertise in a wide array of techniques and technologies for breast cancer surgery. Breast cancer surgeons perform nipple-sparing and skin-sparing mastectomies with plastic surgeons offering several types of breast reconstruction using breast implants as well as the patient’s own tissue. Our newest technology, Positron Emission Mammography is giving surgeons a “map” upon which to base their treatment and surgical plan, helping doctors determine candidates for breast-conserving surgery as well as identify the exact location and extent of the cancer. Community Hospital was the first hospital in Indiana and the Chicagoland area to use PEM.
We work closely with every patient to develop the right cancer treatment plan, consulting additionally through our tumor board conferences with a multidisciplinary team that includes surgeons, plastic surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and other health professionals. Breast health navigators will make appointments and connect patients with services and physicians they may need to see, helping to make the whole process easier and less stressful. Patients have access to supportive services such as ourLymphedema Clinics, which offers new technology to help detect the slightest changes in swelling. A breast cancer support group and mind body programs such yoga, tai chi, reiki and art therapy are provided by the Cancer Resource Centre, as well as additional class offerings throughout the healthcare system. The Cancer Resource Center also offers a free lending library where patients can check out books and video tapes as well use computers to conduct their own research.
To connect with a Navigator for assistance with making appointments, getting questions answered and connecting with services and resources, call:
Community Hospital Breast Health Navigator: 219-934-8869
St. Catherine Hospital Breast Health Navigator: 219-392-7346
St. Mary Medical Center Breast Health Navigator: 219-947-6835
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