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Young, Deaf Breast Cancer Survivor On A Mission To Save Other Women

MILFORD, CT, Nov. 2, 2005 -- Angela Izzo is a 34 year-old on a mission. One year after treatment for breast cancer and months past a scare that the cancer had returned, the Milford, CT resident has been energized to let young women know that they are not immune to the disease. “Ever since I was diagnosed with breast cancer all I wanted to do was help women, especially those who are deaf, to be aware that they have to take control of their own bodies.”

Angela knows all too well how important it is to take the helm when it comes to her own health. Born deaf, she has worked as an Independent Living Skills Specialist at Family Services in Bridgeport working in Deaf Outreach Services. “I did case management work, parenting skills, budget training skills, tutoring, and independent living skills training as well... I also made sure that my clients had all the communication access they have a right to have, including interpreters for their appointments with professionals like doctors and lawyers...I loved fighting for their rights. I love making ‘noises’.”

Her latest “noise” is about getting women, especially deaf women, to be tuned in to changes in their bodies. “Don't listen to anyone but yourself,” says Angela. “You are the one who knows your own body the best. I’m encouraging women to get their mammograms before age 40. I know that breast cancer can sneak up unexpectedly so it’s important for women to know their bodies.”

This advice comes from experience, something she wants to share with other women. Here’s how she describes her ordeal: “I was watching television one night when I discovered a lump. I decided to go to a doctor to have it checked because I knew it was not a part of me. I was diagnosed with first stage invasive breast cancer. I am sure glad I went right away because I was able to catch the cancer in time. I was very fortunate it did not spread to my lymph nodes or any organs in my body. With my family’s suggestion I went to the Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital for my treatments. I went through sixteen weeks of chemotherapy, which was pure hell, but I survived! I then went through thirty-three rounds of radiation.” In August of this year, she started a one-year course of Herceptin Therapy to reduce the chances of cancer coming back, but she is determined to do everything to make sure it does not return. “I became a stronger person when I was diagnosed with cancer,” she says.

She is regaining her strength and putting herself back on the road of life. That road recently took a frightening turn after the diagnosis when a routine mammogram appeared to show an abnormal area on the same side as the cancer. “My world stopped! I thought the cancer was back! I could not function … I could not sleep... I was nervous wreck. ,” she recalls.

David Gruen, M.D., who performed the biopsy at Norwalk Radiology describes that day: “Naturally, we knew of Angela’s personal history when we did the mammogram. We also did MRIs on both breasts due to her history. What we saw made us schedule a needle biopsy as quickly as possible. It turned out to be a moving procedure for us. Any biopsy is stressful for the patient because we only do them when we’ve seen a problem area through mammograms or MRIs. Angela’s was particularly stressful for all of us, because of how young she was when she was diagnosed (33). We were all moved by her age, her deafness and her pre-existing diagnosis. The biopsy was even more challenging because of her deafness. We were unable to use the usual things that help put patients at ease like playing soft music and engaging them in light conversation. Those are also what we do to calm ourselves down during a stressful procedure. We were all a bit more on edge. We sensed the gravity of what was going on and everyone took it to heart. Fortunately, she brought an interpreter, Bridget McBride, who was one of three interpreters who had assisted during her initial cancer treatment. She was particularly critical in helping us work with Angela. We could ask her to ask Angela if she were in pain. At one point Angela got very tearful. We weren’t sure if she was in pain, or being scared of what was going on or emotional because of the situation. Thank goodness for the interpreter.”

“Without my interpreters I would never survived! I could not ask my family members to interpret for me because I knew it was difficult and too much on them. They had to deal with the fact that I had cancer. Why put another burden on them?” recalls Angela.

Working with the interpreter took some getting used to for Dr. Gruen and the team of skilled technologists who cared for Angela. The interpreter had to be in the room and stand in front of Angela so we could communicate with her. One of the technologists stood behind Angela and rubbed her back and wiped her tears, but finding out why she was crying took time because we had to go through the interpreter. Fortunately, she’s experienced in medical settings and we were able to work with her to make the procedure less stressful for Angela with her help.”

In the end, the news was good. The fibrous tumor found by the MRI was benign. But the scare deeply affected Angela. “I kept praying that I would be okay... I did not want to go through the chemotherapy again... I always knew deep in my heart that I will beat the cancer... but the thought of getting sick after chemotherapy makes my stomach turn upside down. It was pretty scary... but yet I am lucky that we live in a high technology world and they were able to perform this procedure. . Now, I’m more convinced than ever that I need to spread the message to all women ... all I ever wanted to do was help deaf women and spread awareness in our community that all women, young and old, could get this disease. Don’t let your age or family history lull you into a false sense of security. I was 33 and had no family history of breast cancer. ” To dramatize the need to get the message out, she put together a team that participated in October’s “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk” in Westport.

Today, Angela looks to the future with optimism. She even hopes to have children one day. “I had an ovarian transplant at Weill Medical College of Cornell University in New York before I started my chemotherapy. I was told that chemo could harm my ovaries so I decided to have the transplant in hopes of having children someday.” She is only the fifth person in the world to do this.

She credits determination and a supportive family for helping her through this journey. “I could not have survived through this whole ordeal without the love and support from my friends and family from near and far... I thank everyone from the bottom of my heart."

To Angela, the future looks bright. She recently returned from a trip to Italy and expects to start studying for her Masters degree in communications soon. She is the director of the Miss Deaf Pageant which the Connecticut Association of the Deaf will present on November 12.

In some ways, she sees the cancer as having enriched her life. “I have to admit that this experience has made me a stronger person,” says Angela. “I want to use that strength to make sure all women know not to be so afraid cancer that they ignore what their bodies are telling them or put off mammograms. We women can beat this horrible disease with the wonders of today's medicine, but no one can get help unless they take the first step. I plan to make so much noise about this that every woman gets the message.”

(Story on Health Digest News)

Norwalk Radiology’s New MRI Receives Accreditation From The American College Of Radiology

NORWALK, CT, Oct. 7, 2005 – Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center recently earned a three-year term of accreditation for its new High Field MRI by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The accreditation came as the result of a recent review process by the ACR.

“Accreditation by the ACR demonstrates a commitment to quality care and patient safety,” says Jesse Wexler, MD, Medical Director, Norwalk Radiology. “It shows patients, referring physicians, and payers that this facility has undergone a rigorous review process and meets nationally accepted standards of care. We are proud of that.” The practice also has ACR accreditation for its mammography and ultrasound equipment.

The High Field MRI is one of two MRIs recently added to the practices, making Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center Fairfield County’s only out-patient imaging center with two MRIs. The second scanner is an Open Speed MRI.

The ACR, headquartered in Reston, VA, awards accreditations to facilities for the achievement of high practice standards after a peer-review evaluation of the practice. Evaluations are conducted by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. They asses the qualifications of the personnel and the adequacy of facility equipment. The surveyors report their findings to the ACR’s Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report.

The ACR is a national organization serving more than 32,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists and medical physicist with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center is a full-service diagnostic imaging center staffed by fellowship trained radiologists who provide digital mammography and CAD, MRI, CT, digital ultrasound, bone density evaluation, X-ray and digital fluoroscopy. Their radiologists are regularly recognized by their peers in published lists of the region’s top doctors. The practice also includes the Suite for Women’s Imaging and The Vein Therapy Center of Fairfield County. All are located 148 East Avenue, Norwalk. For information visit www.norwalkradiology.com or call (203) 838-4886.

Prevention Goes High-Tech

NORWALK - Sept. 26, 2005. If a regular photograph is worth a thousand words, then how much is a digital image that captures even the most subtle distinctions worth?

To women concerned about their breast health, the answer is priceless.

A study by the American College of Radiology Imaging Network, funded by the National Cancer Institute, showed that mammograms taken digitally are more effective at spotting cancerous growths and other abnormalities in young women and those with dense breasts than film-based tests.

Of the 42,760 women in the United States and Canada studied, digital mammograms proved 15 percent more accurate than standard film X-rays among women under 50, 11 percent more accurate in women with dense breasts and 15 percent more accurate among premenopausal women.

The reasons are in the way digital images can be manipulated, inverted, enhanced, sharpened and otherwise altered so a doctor can get the clearest picture possible, while at the same time exposing patients to 15 to 20 percent less radiation and requiring that fewer images be taken.

In addition, because the images can be post-processed, considerably fewer retakes are necessary, which further decreases the radiation dose to the patient.

Dr. David Gruen, medical director of the Suite for Women’s Imaging at the Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center, has been using digital mammography on his patients since 2003 and said the study illustrated what he and other doctors using the technology already knew: it’s better.

“We see more, we see better,” Gruen said. “I wouldn’t go back to analog film.”

A side-by-side comparison of film mammography and digital mammography shows why Gruen and his staff feel so strongly about the digital images.

Regular X-ray films are grainy, the different tissues in the breast are barely distinguishable and doctors need to use a magnifying glass to better view small areas where they think calcifications might be amassed.

Not so with digital. “I can see the whole range of tissue from the chest wall to the nipple,” Gruen said, pointing to a computer screen displaying four images. “The clarity is so much better.”

Digital images are particularly helpful in detecting cancer in young women whose breast tissue tends to be more dense than that of older women.

“Breast cancer can and does occur in younger women and is often more aggressive because tumors are hormonally sensitive and can be stimulated by the hormones still active in young, pre-menopausal women,” Gruen said.

Digital mammograms also have the added benefit of Computer Aided Detection, which further increases the sensitivity of mammography by 20 percent. With CAD, a tiny star shows up on the screen where the computer detects calcification deposits, masses or areas of abnormal density, often the earliest signs of lurking breast cancer.

“Radiologists are humans whereas computers never tire,” Gruen said. “You get one shot a year at breast imaging, so you should take every possible opportunity to maximize the likelihood of detection.”

Although the equipment has proven to be effective, it is not universally available. The study acknowledged that many of the women who would benefit from the digital technology won’t have access to it.

Only about 8 percent of the mammography screening systems in the U.S. are digital. One of the reasons is that digital screening units are much more expensive than filmbased ones. Expenses are typically not passed on to the patient as most insurers will cover digital mammography as they would traditional mammography.

Gruen recommends that all women over the age of 35, regardless of which type of mammography is available to them, have a yearly mammogram.

He also recommends that all women get a baseline mammogram between the ages of 35 and 40 and have yearly mammography thereafter.

“For the past decade, we are fortunate that fewer women are dying of breast cancer because we are picking up many more tumors at an early stage, thanks to tools like Digital Mammography and Computer Aided Detection,” Gruen said. “We know that the five-year survival for localized breast cancer — that is tumors that are small and have not spread — is at or above 90 percent. Yet for tumors that are larger, or have spread, the five-year survival drops to less than 25 percent. That’s why women should get mammography, see their doctor annually and perform monthly self-examination.”

Norwalk Radiologist To Be Featured Coast-To-Coast

NORWALK, CT, May 10, 2005 -- The remarks of Norwalk radiologist David Gruen, MD will be heard coast-to-coast on May 23-27 on Lou Adler’s “Report on Medicine.” His comments on cancer detection, mammography and advances in radiology will be heard on over 100 CBS affiliates throughout the nation. The segments air locally on: WCBS 880 (AM 880) New York, WQUN, (AM 1220) Hamden, WMRD (1150 AM) , Middletown. and WCCO, (AM 830) Waterbury. His remarks will be heard on WCBS at 1:53pm, 10:23pm, 1:23am, 3:23am on each of the five days, but may air at different times on the Connecticut stations.

What attracted Mr. Adler’s interest was a newly released report by the American Cancer Society that half of all cancer deaths could be prevented if Americans adopted healthier lifestyles and made better use of cancer screening tests.

“This report contained critical information that should encourage everyone to seek the earliest detection possible, ” says Dr. Gruen. “As a practice committed to early detection, we were particularly pleased that Mr. Adler turned to us for comments on the report. By showcasing these findings ‘Report on Medicine’ will get a vital message out nationwide that detection and lifestyle changes can save lives.”

Dr. Gruen is a member of The Suite for Women’s Imaging at Norwalk Radiology located at 148 East Avenue, Norwalk. Norwalk Radiology is a full service diagnostic and women’s imaging center that provides mammograms, MRIs, ultra-sounds, bone density studies, X-ray and fluoroscopy. For patients with abnormal screening examinations, they can do diagnostic mammography within 24 hours and can perform a diagnostic biopsy within 24 hours. This means that patient can go from detection to diagnosis in 48 hours. The center is one of the first in Connecticut offering full-field digital mammography, which increases patient capacity and allows more women to be screened for breast cancer. In addition, when linked to digital mammography, computer aided detection has been shown to increase the sensitivity of mammography by almost 20%.

Dr. Gruen lives in Weston with his wife, Jennifer, and three children.

My Legs Look Like My Mother’s!

NORWALK, CT, Jan. 7, 2005 -- You’re trying on bathing suits for that mid-winter get-away and you look down at your legs. “What’s that?” you ask yourself in a panic. “Where did those lumps come from? My legs look like my mother’s!”

For many women and men, varicose veins are something they never expected but which are relatively common. In fact, up to 20 percent of American women and men are affected by varicose veins.

Varicose veins often look like bumps or lumpy protrusions underneath the skin. Varicose veins often develop when large veins in the leg malfunction and allow blood to pool, a condition that leads to varicose veins. These varicose veins can make your legs feel heavy and tired. Cramping, throbbing, swelling, are also common problems.

Heredity is a major contributing factor to varicose vein disease. Women are more often affected by varicose than men usually due to pregnancy. But if you’re someone who has to stand a lot or if you are overweight, you also have a greater chance of developing varicose veins.

Treatments for Varicose Veins – Then and Now

In the past, the treatment for varicose veins consisted of compression stockings and a surgical procedure called “stripping.” Many people shied away from the surgery, because of discomfort, long recuperation times, and significant scarring.

Recently, more advanced treatments have emerged and can be performed in a doctor’s office. Among these advances are endovenous laser therapy and ambulatory phlebectomy. “Using today’s minimally invasive technology, varicose veins can vanish without all the disadvantages and inconveniences of less modern treatments,” says David Klein, MD, the Medical Director of the Vein Therapy Center of Fairfield County, an affiliate of Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center. “These are relatively quick, effective outpatient procedures that involve minimal discomfort. After treatment, patients can walk out of the office and resume their normal activities. Their legs look and feel better sooner and with little or no disruption to their busy schedules. It’s very rewarding when advancements in medical technology enable us to provide an alternative that’s far superior to older treatments.”

With endovascular laser therapy a tiny laser fiber is inserted into a vein through a small puncture. Energy pulses from the tip of the laser seal off the malfunctioning vein, allowing the body to re-route the blood to other more healthy veins. The procedure is done with local anesthesia. Patients wear compression stockings for a short time after the procedure to promote faster healing.

An adjunct procedure called Ambulatory Phlebectomy is also done as an outpatient procedure and under local anesthetic. With this treatment, micro-incisions are made in the skin and undesired varicose veins are removed. The incisions are so small that stitches are not necessary and there is virtually no scarring. After the procedure, patients can go back to their normal activities. They may need to wear compression stockings for a short time to promote healing and new blood flow.

How to Know Which Procedure is Right for You

Dr. Klein advises that women bothered by their varicose schedule an initial consultation with a Board Certified Radiologist who specializes in Vascular and Interventional training. The doctor will meet with you to make a preliminary recommendation for your course of treatment. “We use an ultrasound to determine which specific veins are malfunctioning. When our patients have both varicose and spider veins, we usually treat the varicose veins first because they contribute to swelling and enlargement in smaller veins. When we are successful in treating the larger veins, we move on to the smaller ones.”

He advises men and women to do their homework before meeting with a doctor. “Patients tell me that our website’s Frequently Asked Question section (www.norwalkradiology.com) gave them a lot of information, “he says. He also advises going to the websites of The American College of Phlebology (www.phlebology.org) or the site for Endovascular Laser Therapy (www.elvslaser.com).

“This is the time of the year when many women seriously consider this treatment,” says Dr. Klein. “It makes sense to have it done in the winter, so their legs will be ready for summer. With today’s advances, nobody has to spend the summer in long pants because she’s embarrassed by varicose veins. Not anymore,” he says.

The Vein Therapy Center of Fairfield County is located at Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center, at 148 East Avenue in Norwalk. Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center is a full-service diagnostic imaging center staffed by fellowship trained radiologists who provide digital mammography and CAD, MRI, CT, digital ultrasound, bone density evaluation, X-ray and digital fluoroscopy.

Additional information on minimally invasive therapy for varicose and spider veins is available by calling 1-877-999-VEIN (8346).

Advances In Breast Cancer Detection And Diagnosis Give Women Peace Of Mind And Earliest Treatment

NORWALK, CT, Feb. 9, 2005 -- It was the moment every woman fears. While doing her monthly breast exam, “Jane” felt a lump in her armpit. She went to a surgeon who couldn’t be sure about the lump and wanted more information. He referred Jane to a radiology practice that used some of today’s most advanced technology. Because the radiologist was able to make use of recent medical breakthroughs, he were able to take Susan her from concern, to detection, to diagnosis and treatment all in 72 hours. In the past, Jane most likely would have had to have surgery to biopsy the lymph node and maybe even mastectomy to find out exactly what the lump was and how to treat it.

“This was truly an example of medical advances saving this patient from weeks of worry as well as the possibility of having to undergo one or more drastic medical procedures,” says Dr. David Gruen, head of the Suite for Women’s Imaging at Norwalk Radiology, where the woman was treated. “We got a phone call from the surgeon, concerned about the lump she felt in her armpit. We were able to use a combination of diagnostic tools to examine bother of her breasts. We found the problem lymph node, but we not the primary tumor. Fortunately, we also have a CAT scan right here that allowed us to give us some answers. It helped us pinpoint a very small nodule in one of her breasts that we further investigated with ultrasound. This permitted us to know exactly where the problem was and, using MRI, we were able to do a biopsy. In the past, we would have had to do a surgical biopsy of the lymph node and then perhaps a mastectomy to look for the primary tumor. As it was, she had her answer without radical surgery and within 72 hours.”

When a woman finds a lump the wait for answers can be terrifying. But, as “Jane” found out, recent advances have cut down the time from detection to diagnosis dramatically, offering both peace of mind as well as the earliest possible treatment. “We know that early diagnosis and treatment are the keys to surviving breast cancer. Advances within the last five years have given us the tools to do that by allowing us to detect even smaller lesions. In the past, those lesions could go unnoticed until they grew, delaying treatment until they were found,” says Dr. Gruen.

He explains how recent advances have virtually changed the landscape of breast cancer detection and diagnosis. For years, mammograms have served as a women’s first line of defense in the war against breast cancer. “For a women over 40, a yearly mammogram has been a key part of her taking charge of their own health, “says Dr. Gruen. “Fortunately, most mammograms come back normal. But, for five percent of the women, something shows up. And, while most of the abnormalities turn out to be nothing, getting that information quickly and decisively is what all of us in this field strive for.”

Suppose a mammogram shows some kind of abnormality. The doctor may then request an ultrasound for more information. “The ultrasound can tell us on the spot if it’s a cyst and therefore nothing to worry about,” says Dr. Gruen. “But it also can tell us if it’s a solid mass that needs more investigation. If that’s necessary, some of the latest technology allows us to use ultrasound to biopsy and remove growths of five mm or less within 72 hours of identifying it.”

Norwalk Radiology added breast MRI as any additional tool only a few months ago to further speed up diagnosis. “The new MRIs give us ways to detect smaller lesions than ever before,” says Mr. Gruen. “Mammography and ultrasounds are powerful tools, but they couldn’t always tell us all we needed to know. In the past, if we spotted a problem with a mammogram, we would do an ultrasound. The ultrasound might not show anything. So then, we’d have the question: ‘Is what we see in mammography real?’ We’d recommend what we call a ‘Short Interval Follow-up.’ This is another mammogram in six months. Although this Short-Interval Follow-up is what the America College of Radiology recommends, it’s not satisfying to most women. It’s hard to say ‘Let’s wait and see if it grows’. Now we have a better alternative. We can do a breast MRI. A negative MRI virtually excludes an invasive breast cancer, giving a woman an answer much sooner than waiting for the follow-up mammogram in six months.”

The MRI is also used as guidance to sample or remove a lesion. “Using MRI as guidance, we can actually locate and remove lesions that are as small as 4-5 mm,” says Dr. Gruen. “It’s called a vacuum biopsy. When we do this, we leave a marker behind that can be seen on mammography or MRI. It allows us to follow-up and check the location in the future.”

MRIs of both breasts at once (called Bi-lateral MRIs) are another advance that are especially important for women with known breast cancers. These allow doctors to check for the presence of cancer in both breasts at the same time. “We know that women who have breast cancer have at least a 10 percent chance of having another cancer in either that or other breast at the same time,” points out Dr. Gruen. “If someone has a breast cancer and there are other lesions that are too small to identify, doing a lumpectomy on one site, won’t remove all the cancer. In the past, if these tumors weren’t spotted and allowed to grow after surgery, if would appear as if the patient had a recurrence, when, in fact, the cancer was there all along. This MRI allows us to compare both breasts at once, allowing for the best detection of the earliest breast cancer.”

What do all these advances in technology mean for women? “Today, no woman has to spend weeks waiting and worrying about whether an abnormality is cancerous,” says Dr. Gruen. “Medical science has given us the tools to get women the answers they need quicker than ever. For most women, that will mean a return to their daily lives without the worry of whether or not a growth is cancerous. And for the one in eight women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer, it means early detection and treatment. And that means a greater chance of surviving breast cancer.”

Dr. Gruen heads the Suite For Women’s Imaging at Norwalk Radiology. He is certified by the American Board of Radiology in 1997. Dr. Gruen has been on staff at Norwalk Hospital since 1998.

The Suite for Women’s Imaging provides a full complement of women’s imaging services, allowing women to go from detection to diagnosis in 72 hours. Their newest technology allows MRI imaging of both breasts at the same time, breast MRIs for further examination of questionable lesions, MRI and ultrasound-guided biopsies, and diagnostic imaging including a full-field digital mammography unit coupled with Computer Aided Detection. The suite also provides full women’s ultrasound, and bone density evaluation/ osteoporosis screening. The Suite for Women’s Imaging is staffed full-time by fellowship-trained radiologists specializing in women’s imaging.

Norwalk Radiology and The Suite for Women’s Imaging are located at 148 East Avenue, Norwalk. For further information or to view the American Cancer Society’s guidelines on mammography visit www.norwalkradiology.com or call (203) 838-Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center is a full-service diagnostic imaging center staffed by fellowship trained radiologists who provide digital mammography and CAD, MRI, CT, digital ultrasound, bone density evaluation, X-ray and digital fluoroscopy. Their radiologists are regularly recognized by their peers in published lists of the region’s top doctors.

For more information about medical advances in the detection and diagnosis of breast cancer, see www.NorwalkRadiology.com.

Norwalk, CT (Dec 2004)-New state-of-the-art magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner -- breakthrough tool for the diagnosis of disease.

The new system know as Signa® Infinity with EXCITE ™-is from GE Medical Systems, one of the world’s leading manufacturers. Capable of acquiring diagnostic information significantly faster than other MR systems, the EXCITE scanner will enable doctors at Norwalk Radiology & Mammography Center to improve the diagnosis of a wide range of conditions, including cardiac and vascular disease; stroke; abdominal and brain disorders; breast disease; and musculoskeletal conditions in the knee, shoulder and other joints. This scanner reduces the length of MRI exams while improving the quality of anatomical information. It will also make MRI exams more comfortable for patients, especially those that have a hard time holding their breath during certain procedures.

MRI utilizes computers and magnetic fields, rather than radiation, to provide safe and non-invasive images of the human anatomy. It is estimated that more than 20 million MRI exams are preformed each year in the United States.

Norwalk Radiology’s Suite For Women’s Imaging Receives ACR Accreditation

NORWALK, CT, Jan. 5, 2004 – The Norwalk Radiology Suite for Women’s Imaging has been awarded a three-year accreditation in breast ultrasound as the result of a recent survey by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

Accreditation by the ACR marks the achievement of high practice standards after a peer-review evaluation of its practice. The evaluations are conducted by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. They assess the qualifications of the facility’s personnel and the adequacy of its equipment.

“We believe that patients should expect the facility they use for breast health to be accredited by the American College of Radiology,” said David Gruen, M.D., Medical Director of the Suite for Woman’s Imaging. “We pursued ACR accreditation for our breast ultrasound services because this demonstrates that quality patient care is our highest priority.”

The ACR is a national organization serving more than 32,000 diagnostic-interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists and medical physicists with programs for focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center is a full-service diagnostic imaging center staffed by fellowship trained radiologists who provide digital mammography and CAD, MRI, CT, digital ultrasound, bone density evaluation, X-ray and digital fluoroscopy. Their radiologists are regularly recognized by their peers in published lists of the region’s top doctors. The first of its kind in Connecticut, the Suite for Women’s Imaging provides the full complement of women’s imaging services, allowing women to go from detection to diagnosis in 72 hours. Their newest technology allows MRI imaging of both breasts at the same time, breast MRIs for further examination of questionable lesions, MRI and utltrasound-guided biopsies, and diagnostic imaging including a full-field digital mammography unit coupled with Computer Aided Detection. The suite also provides full women’s ultrasound, and bone density evaluation/ osteoporosis screening. The Suite for Women’s Imaging is staffed full-time by fellowship-trained radiologists specializing in women’s imaging. Norwalk Radiology and The Suite for Women’s Imaging are located at 148 East Avenue, Norwalk. For further information or to view the American Cancer Society’s guidelines on mammography visit www.norwalkradiology.com or call (203) 838-4886

New Radiology Associates Join Practice

Norwalk, CT September 2003 -- We are pleased to announce two new radiology associates who have joined our practice during the last several months -- Lauren A. Ernberg, M.D., Diagnostic Radiology, and Seema C. Sanghavi, M.D., Radiation Oncology.

Vein Therapy Center of Fairfield County Offers New, Minimally Invasive Treatments To Eliminate Varicose Veins Without Surgery

Norwalk, CT May 2003 -- Approximately 25 percent of all women and 15 percent of all men suffer from varicose veins. The traditional treatment for this painful condition has been surgical stripping and ligation, a procedure that many patients found very painful -- and that often required up to six weeks of recovery time. Now, The Vein Therapy Center of Fairfield County, an affiliate of Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center, is offering a far simpler, minimally invasive outpatient treatment of varicose and spider veins.

“Using today’s most advanced, minimally invasive technology, varicose and spider veins can vanish without all the disadvantages of older treatments,” says David Klein, MD, the Medical Director of the Vein Therapy Center. These are “quick, effective outpatient procedures that involve minimal discomfort. After treatment, a patient can simply walk out of the office and resume their normal activities.”

The Vein Therapy Center offers the full complement of vein therapies, including the newest treatment option, “ Endovascular Laser Therapy.” With EVLT, a tiny laser fiber is inserted into a vein through a small puncture site. Energy pulses emitted from the tip of the laser occlude a small portion of the vein, allowing the body to automatically route the blood to other healthy veins.

“This is a varicose vein treatment that’s perfect for today’s busy lifestyles,” notes Dr. Klein “Patients can look and feel better almost immediately and with very little inconvenience. They don’t have to disrupt their normal schedules. It’s very rewarding when advancements in medical technology enable us to provide an alternative that’s far superior to older treatments.”

The Vein Therapy Center also offers a procedure called Ambulatory Phlebectomy -- an entirely new alternative to remove the larger, thicker veins. According to Klein, this procedure “uses micro-incisions to gently remove the undesired veins. The incisions are so minute that stitches are generally not necessary, and there is virtually no scarring.”

Spider veins are also easily treated at the Vein Therapy Center by a process known as Sclerotherapy. With this technique, a micro-needle is used to inject a small amount of medicine into the undesired veins, causing the veins to shrink, and often disappear completely.

The Vein Therapy Center of Fairfield County is located at Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center, at 148 East Avenue in Norwalk. Additional information on minimally invasive therapy for varicose and spider veins is available by calling 203-855-1067 or Toll Free 1-877-999-VEIN (8346).

Lt. Gov. M. Jodi Rell Honors Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Cuts Ribbon on Connecticut’s Only Suite for Women’s Imaging

Break-through Technology from Fairfield-based GE Medical Systems Showcased

Norwalk, CT Oct. 8, 2002 – Lt. Gov. M. Jodi Rell cut the ribbon on the Suite for Women’s Imaging, the only site in the Connecticut providing Full-Field Digital Mammography linked directly to Digital Computer Aided Detection. Created by the Medical Systems division of Fairfield-based GE, this combination increases the accuracy of spotting early tumors by 20 percent.

"It is most appropriate that we officially open the Suite for Women’s Imaging in October, as it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month," points out David Gruen, M.D., one of the Suite’s founders and a board certified radiologist. "We are also using the occasion to kick-off our support for the American Cancer Society and it’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk on October 20." The Suite’s staff will present a substantial donation to the American Cancer Society and will also sponsor their staff members who participate in the October 20 event. Representatives of the American Cancer Society will be on hand to participate in a check presentation.

The Suite for Women’s Imaging is a new concept in preventive healthcare for women. It provides a center where the diagnostic needs of women are centralized. The Suite offers the full complement of women’s imaging services, including Full-Field Digital Mammography linked directly to Digital Computer Aided Detection, ultrasound, and bone density evaluation/ osteoporosis screening.

"We know that early detection is key to the best treatment and to saving the lives of our mothers, sisters and friends diagnosed with breast cancer. Establishing this Suite is vital to the thousands of women throughout Connecticut who will benefit from the latest advance in mammography screenings," said Lt. Governor Rell.

In designing the suite, patients were asked for their input on décor and the result is a unique spa-like setting that includes amenities like private, women-only waiting rooms, soft music and herbal teas. "We know that having any kind of diagnostic test can be stressful and we believe that we can help relieve some of that stress with a soothing environment and staff that has a unique sensitivity to the needs of women," says Dr. Gruen.

The centerpiece of the Suite is the state’s only Full-Field Digital Mammography unit coupled with Computer Aided Detection, a proven technology that improves radiologists’ ability to find small tumors earlier. Adding Computer-Aided Detection (CAD) to the screening process means that a sophisticated computer software program scans the images, automatically flags potentially suspicious areas, and alerts the radiologist to take a second look. "It's like having another pair of trained and unbiased eyes viewing every image, and that’s why it’s been shown to increase accuracy by as much as 20 percent," says Dr. Gruen.

If a lump or mass is discovered in a screening mammogram, by a doctor’s clinical breast exam, or self-examination, the Suite offers the peace of mind of on-site Digital Ultrasound. Ultrasound can determine whether the lump is cystic or solid. "This real-time and radiation-free imaging tool is invaluable in the management of either an abnormal breast exam or an abnormal mammogram," says Dr. Gruen.

The Suite also includes state-of-the-art osteoporosis screening through an advanced system called DEXA. DEXA stands for Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. The suite’s new DEXA uses fan beam technology, with an x-ray beam of two different energies that enables doctors to measure bone strength without being confused by other tissue, like muscle, fat and skin. Furthermore, the Suite has the latest generation of DEXA, which routinely evaluates the spine and both hips in just 15 minutes. This provides the most complete evaluation of a woman’s bone density status. "We find that DEXA is the most accurate and reproducible of the bone density measurement tests. This means we can assess a woman’s risk for future, pinpoint the need for treatment and gauge the response to that treatment precisely," says Dr. Gruen. "We also like the fact that it produces these results much faster than previously available tests, with extremely low doses of radiation – less than 1/100th of a chest x-ray."

"The Suite is a new concept in women’s health that includes a combination of the latest technology, a setting personalized for women’s needs and a staff that truly understands their issues," says Dr. Gruen. "Our patients provided very valuable input into making the Suite comfortable and supportive of women’s needs. At a time when many women are concerned about their shrinking options for diagnostic needs, we are pleased to provide this alternative as part of the services offered by Norwalk Radiology."

First-Of-Its-Kind Suite For Women’s Imaging Opens

Norwalk, CT September 6, 2002 – At a time when many women are seeing their preventive healthcare options shrink, one medical group is bucking the trend. At the newly opened Suite for Women’s Imaging at Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center on East Avenue in Norwalk, the diagnostic needs of women are centralized in a non-clinical, spa-like setting. The suite, the first of its kind in Connecticut, offers the full complement of women’s imaging services, including the first Full-field Digital Mammography linked directly to Digital Computer Aided Detection in Connecticut. The suite also provides full women’s ultrasound, and bone density evaluation/osteoporosis screening. The Suite for Women’s Imaging is staffed full-time by fellowship-trained radiologists specializing in women’s imaging.

"Women have unique healthcare needs and concerns. We wanted to create an environment where they could be addressed in a comfortable and private setting," says David Gruen, MD, one of the on-site radiologists specializing in women’s imaging. "The Suite for Women’s Imaging represents a significant commitment to women’s health at a time when services like mammography are being curtailed around the country." A recent report by the General Accounting Office forecasted a future shortage of facilities to meet the growing demand for mammograms. The decline has already started. The GAO reported that, between 1998 and 2000 there was 5 percent decease in the number of facilities providing mammography. Connecticut lost 12 facilities between February 2001 and February 2002.

The new Suite is the only place in Connecticut where women can take advantage of Full-Field Digital Mammography coupled with Computer Aided Detection. This pioneering technology was developed by Fairfield-based GE Corporation through its Medical Systems Division. Digital Mammography uses less radiation, and provides better visibility of the breast near the skin line, the chest wall, and in women with dense breast tissue. The digital technology generates images within seconds, reducing the need for callbacks, and significantly shortens the time of the examination. "Because it's digital, the radiologist can magnify, invert, and enhance the image to allow for a more careful evaluation of the breast. Our goal is to detect tumors at the earliest possible stage. These advanced tools help us increase the chance to do that," points out Dr. Gruen.

The Suite is the first facility in Connecticut to directly team Digital Mammography with Digital Computer-Aided Detection (CAD). CAD is a sophisticated computer software program that scans the image, automatically flags potentially suspicious areas, and alerts the radiologist to take a second look. "It's like having another pair of trained and unbiased eyes viewing every image, and it’s been shown to increase accuracy by as much as 20%. That means that it can detect early or subtle changes that may have been overlooked, and allow for early intervention and greater chances for cure," says Dr. Gruen.

If a lump or mass is discovered in a screening mammogram, by a doctor’s clinical breast exam, or self-examination, the Suite offers the peace of mind of on-site Digital Ultrasound. Ultrasound can determine whether the lump is cystic or solid. "This real-time and radiation-free imaging tool is invaluable in the management of either an abnormal breast exam or an abnormal mammogram," says Dr. Gruen.

Today’s woman, especially if she is aware of the new controversy surrounding hormonal replacement therapy, has an increased interest in her bone density. For her, the Suite offers osteoporosis screening with an advanced system called DEXA that can detect precursors to the osteoporosis. DEXA stands for Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. The suite’s new DEXA uses fan beam technology, with an x-ray beam of two different energies that enables doctors to measure bone strength without being confused by other tissue, like muscle, fat and skin. Furthermore, the Suite has the latest generation of DEXA, which routinely evaluates the spine and both hips in just 15 minutes. This provides the most complete evaluation of a woman’s bone density status. "We find that DEXA is the most accurate and reproducible of the bone density measurement tests. This means we can assess a woman’s risk for future, pinpoint the need for treatment and gauge the response to that treatment precisely," says Dr. Gruen. "We also like the fact that it produces these results much faster than previously available tests, with extremely low doses of radiation – less than 1/100th of a chest x-ray.

"By combining all these diagnostic functions in one place, women can gain a comfort level with the office and its staff and know that they can get answers without going to a variety of different settings. This helps empower them to take an active role in managing their own healthcare needs," concludes Dr. Gruen.

The Suite for Women's Imaging: The First Center in Connecticut Offering Digital Mammography and Computer Aided Detection

Norwalk, CT August 2002 – Norwalk Radiology and Mammography Center is pleased to announce the opening of The Suite for Women’s Imaging, offering the most advanced technology to serve the specific imaging needs of women in a comfortable and private setting.

The Suite for Women’s Imaging features Digital Mammography teamed with Computer-Aided Detection, the first system of its type in Connecticut. Rapidly becoming the standard for excellence, digital mammography provides the clearest images of dense breast tissue with improved visibility near the skin line and the chest wall. Digital Mammography uses less radiation than traditional mammography and requires less time for the exam. Because it's digital, the radiologist can magnify, invert, and enhance the image to allow for a more careful evaluation of the breast. Although it takes more time for the radiologist to evaluate the enhanced images, we think it’s worth it to improve detection of small tumors.

Computer-Aided Detection, or CAD, is used in conjunction with the digital mammography system. CAD is a sophisticated computer software program that scans the image, automatically flags potentially suspicious areas, and alerts the radiologist to take a second look. It's like having a second pair of trained and unbiased eyes viewing every image, and has been shown to increase accuracy by as much as 20%. That means that it can detect early or subtle changes that may have been overlooked, and allow for early intervention and greater chances for cure.

Digital Ultrasound is utilized if a lump or mass is discovered in a screening mammogram, by a doctor’s clinical breast exam, or your self-examination. Ultrasound can determine whether the lump is cystic or solid. Utilizing digital ultrasound, this real-time and radiation-free imaging tool is invaluable in the management of either an abnormal breast exam or an abnormal mammogram.

The Suite also offers Osteoporosis Screening with an advanced system so sensitive, it is able to detect even the subtlest changes in bone density and to look beyond that to predict future fracture risk. Under the guidance of your physician, your test results help guide your approach to bone health as you age. So you know where your risks are and, if you're taking medication, how well it's working.

If you are scheduling a mammogram appointment and have never been to our facility before, please bring your previous mammogram films to your appointment. The radiologists need to compare your present images to any previous studies to determine if there have been any changes. Simply contact your previous facility and arrange to pick up your films.

To schedule an appointment at the Suite for Women’s Imaging please call: 203-838-4886

Women In Fairfield County Now Have Access To Latest Development In Mammography

Norwalk, CT April 19, 2002 – Women in Fairfield County now have access to the latest weapon in the fight against breast cancer. Norwalk Radiology is the first imaging facility in Fairfield County to offer full-field digital mammography, which allows doctors to see more and do more than traditional mammography.

The GE Senographe 2000D is a breakthrough technology that provides computer images instead of traditional analog x-ray films. "We chose to add this technology to our practice because of its ability to offer state-of-the-art accuracy with a lower dose, particularly in women with a dense breast imaging pattern," says Jesse Wexler, MD, Director of Radiology Services at Norwalk Radiology. "The earlier you catch a problem, the more likely it is to mean less invasive treatment and a better outcome."

According to Dr. Wexler, digital images provide better visibility of the breast near the skin line, the chest wall, and in women with dense breast tissue. It is especially appropriate for women ages 35-40, those who have not had children and those at increased risk for breast cancer.

The digital technology generates images within seconds and allows technicians to magnify and manipulate those images while the patient is still in position. This reduces the need for additional views or callbacks and enhances the information available for reading and interpretation.

New Weapon In The Fight Against Breast Cancer

Another benefit of the new Senographe 2000D digital mammography unit is that exams can be done in less than half the time of standard film screen mammograms. "This system offers a significant advantage because reduced exam time means we can screen more women for breast cancer," points out Dr. Wexler. "This is particularly crucial in Fairfield County where patients have had to make their appointments months in advance due to high demand for mammography."

The arrival of the GE Senographe is part of a major renovation at Norwalk Radiology to create a multifaceted Women’s Health Center that will include screening and diagnostic mammography, ultrasound, and bone density measurement to the women of Fairfield County. The Women’s Health Center is scheduled to open early this summer.

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women in the US, according to the National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations. One in nine women in the US will develop breast cancer at some point in her life. Nearly 200,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed last year, according to the American Cancer Society.

Norwalk Radiology and Digital Mammography Center is located at 148 East Avenue in Norwalk, at exit 16 off I-95. For more information, and to make an appointment, call (203) 838-4886.

Additional information about digital mammography can be found on this web site in our Digital Mammography - Frequently Asked Questions section.

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