Information

Screening and Diagnostics

radiologist looking at computer screens while another radiologist preps a patient for a scan

Bone Density

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 hip, spine, forearm or full-body bone densitometry with state-of-the-art technology and certified technologists. We offer an appointment schedule which allows women to schedule both their mammogram and bone density study on the same visit for maximum convenience to the patient.

Breast Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound can provide accurate images of breast nodules to differentiate between 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 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.

Genetic Counseling

Thompson’s genetic clinic identifies individuals 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. Indications for a cancer genetic evaluation include:

Breast and Ovarian Cancer

  • You or a close relative had breast cancer prior to age 50 , had ovarian cancer at any age, or had bilateral breast cancer
  • You and two or more close relatives had breast and/or ovarian cancer at any age
  • You are of Ashkenazi Jewish decent or had breast or ovarian cancer at any age

Colorectal Cancer

  • You had colon or uterine cancer prior to age 50
  • You had two separate colon cancers or both colon and uterine cancer at any age
  • You have two close relatives with colon cancer, with at least one diagnosed before age 55
  • You have three close relatives with colon and/or uterine cancer at any age
  • You or a close relative have been diagnosed with polyposis

Other Cancers and Syndromes

  • You or a close relative have a history of multiple primary tumors at early ages
  • You have many close relatives with cancer diagnosed before age 50

Mammography

Breast examinations include a mammogram, breast health counseling and a breast health exam performed by a nurse. No physician referral is needed for an annual screening mammogram, and the procedure is covered by virtually all insurance companies. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 865-331-1624.

Multidisciplinary Clinics

Thompson’s multidisciplinary breast and chest clinics bring together medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, licensed clinical social workers, nutritionists, genetics counselors, and clinical trial nurses to review each patient’s case.

Each clinic is coordinated by a patient navigator, who is an oncology-certified nurse and serves as the patient’s advocate throughout the diagnosis and treatment process. During clinic, diagnosis is confirmed and the patients are seen by the team of cancer specialists to discuss treatment choices. For additional information about the multidisciplinary breast and chest clinics, please click here, and call 865-331-2797 or 1-800-559-5583 to speak with our multidisciplinary coordinator.

Outreach Services

Thompson Cancer Survival Center’s Cancer Outreach staff travels to underserved areas to provide free or low-cost services to people who are medically needy or underserved.

The Mammography Voucher Program offers low-cost screening mammograms to women in the communities where they live and work. Mammograms are provided at no cost to the financially eligible.

Prostate and cervical cancer screenings are provided for free in collaboration with several rural health clinics throughout East Tennessee.

Cancer Outreach Services collaborates with local businesses and community organizations to provide education about cancer detection and prevention to medically underserved, high-risk communities. Each year, thousands of people receive potentially life-saving services from Thompson’s Cancer Outreach Services.

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