Carol W. and Julius A. Rippel Breast Center

The evaluation and management of abnormalities of the breast, including benign and cancerous conditions, is a highly specialized area of emphasis at the Carol W. and Julius A. Rippel Breast Center. 

A multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses and technologists familiar with all aspects of breast disease participate in evaluation and treatment planning. The team approach includes participation by the patient and family, as well as the primary care and consulting physicians.

Diagnostic and Screening

Diagnostic and screening approaches include digital mammography, stereotactic breast biopsy, and specialized histopathologic marker assessment. Lymph Node Mapping with Sentinel Node Biopsy is also used by physicians to obtain a more accurate biopsy and gain information that may reduce the amount of surgery needed.

Breast Cancer Treatment Options

Treatment options include:

• Breast-conserving surgery
  
• Reconstructive surgery
  
• Adjuvant and neo-adjuvant chemotherapy
  
• Hormone therapy
  
• Biotherapy
  
• Radiation therapy

We also make available new drugs being tested in national clinical trials. Patient education, counseling services, and genetic counseling and testing round out our treatment approach. 

In addition to individual and family counseling, a variety of free mind body and support groups meet on a regular basis, including I Can Cope, Look Good, Feel Better and the Breast Support Group .