Thompson's complete range of diagnostics includes conventional X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT or CAT scans), positron emission tomography and other diagnostic tools and technologies.

Positron Emission Tomography

Detecting cancer at the molecular level before changes are visible.

A PET scan reveals changes in the body's metabolism, so it can find cancer before it has grown enough to be detected by other types of scans. PET can determine if a tumor is malignant or benign, and the stage of lung, colorectal, head and neck and breast cancer, lymphoma, melanoma and many other cancers. Frequently a PET scan can eliminate the need for a biopsy or other diagnostic surgery. A single whole-body PET scan can reveal the original site or sites of the cancer and any places to which it has spread.

In 2001, Thompson Cancer Survival Center West was the first facility in the region - and just the second in the world - with the LSO PET scanner. This scanner can detect cancer in a fraction of the time required by previous detection and diagnostic technologies.

Next Thompson pioneered a new generation of PET-CT scanner. The Biograph TruePoint PET-CT can find tumors faster and more accurately than ever before. The system has higher resolution, so doctors can identify tumors which might go undetected with other technologies. In fact, it can find tumors and metastases at the molecular level, long before they would become visible with other systems.

Now a second PET Center has been opened at Thompson's downtown facility. And with the new center has come a new advance. The Biograph 40 TruePoint PET-CT scanner. This leading-edge PET technology combines the accuracy of the TruePoint system with a 40-slice CT scanner to pinpoint the locations of abnormalities more precisely.

Thompson Cancer Survival Center West's PET Imaging Center is accredited in positron emission tomography by the American College of Radiology (ACR). This accreditation assures patients that their treatment meets the most rigid standards of excellence mandated by the ACR.

Mammography
Thompson's certified mammographers perform over 12,000 mammograms each year. The latest digital mammography equipment provides unsurpassed accuracy.

Breast Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound can provide accurate images of breast nodules to differentiate their cystic and solid structures.

Breast Ultrasound is used to assess breast lumps to identify solid and cystic components. Ultrasound is often used as an adjunct to mammography to more fully evaluate dense glandular and cystic breast tissue. Ultrasound can also be used to identify a specific breast mass for biopsy if indicated.

Core Biopsy

Core Biopsy

Core Biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure which frequently eliminates the need for a surgical biopsy. Thompson was the first area facility to offer stereotactic guided core biopsies in 1993. Using state of the art technology, we now offer stereotactic or ultrasound guidance for vacuum assisted needle biopsy. This simple outpatient biopsy requires only a local anesthetic. There is virtually no scarring or patient discomfort, women can return to their usual activities the next day, and the cost is about half that of a surgical biopsy.

Cyst Aspiration
Aspiration of a breast cyst is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure for some women who present with a breast mass. Using ultrasound guidance and local anesthetic, a small needle is used to remove fluid from the cyst. This fluid can be sent for cytology if further evaluation is required.

Bone Densitometry
Bone density decreases can occur as women age, and in response to other medical and biological events. Loss of bone density may indicate osteoporosis and an increase in fracture risk. Thompson offers bone densitometry with state of the art technology and certified technologists. We perform hip, spine, forearm, or full body densitometry as medically indicated. We offer an appointment schedule which allows women to schedule both their mammogram and bone density study on the same visit for maximal patient convenience.

Genetics Clinic
Thompson's genetics clinic identifies people who are likely to have a hereditary predisposition to cancer. People who are identified as at risk are offered additional counseling on the genetics of hereditary cancer, genetic testing options and risk reduction.

Multidisciplinary Conferences and Clinics
Thompson's multidisciplinary chest and breast conferences and clinics bring together physicians including a medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, surgeon, radiologist and pathologist and other clinicians including a licensed clinical social worker, nutritionist, genetics counselor and clinical trial nurse to review each patient's case. After the conference the patient may meet with individual specialists one at a time. In just one afternoon the diagnosis is confirmed and a course of treatment can be agreed upon and scheduled by the multidisciplinary cancer care coordinator.

Outreach Services

Thompson's Cancer Outreach Services team provides cancer screenings and education to communities that would otherwise not have these important services.

Thompson Cancer Survival Center's Cancer Outreach Staff provides free or low-cost services to people who are medically needy or underserved.

Learn more about Outreach Services.