Bluewater deploys digital mammography scanners

SARNIA & PETROLIA, Ont. – Bluewater Health has installed the first of two new state-of-the-art mammography machines, replacing equipment used in the early detection of breast cancer. Patient exams using the new machine have already started, while installation of the second machine is underway.

“This new mammography equipment is state-of-the-art with features that were not present on our old equipment,” said Dr. Youssef Almalki (pictured), medical director, Diagnostic Imaging, Bluewater Health.

“The new equipment has the ability to perform Digital Breast Tomosynthesis, or DBT, as well as contrast-enhanced mammography. There are many advantages to DBT and contrast mammography, especially in characterizing abnormalities on mammogram and improving the diagnostic power of mammography for all women – including those with dense breast tissue,” he said.

Dr. Almalki added, “The new technology is a great addition to our arsenal at Bluewater Health. It places us on par with much larger centres, such as Toronto, and allows us to provide exceptional screening and diagnostic mammography to our community.”

The Mammography department at Bluewater Health provides over 12,000 mammograms a year to women in Sarnia-Lambton and surrounding areas.

“It was through a significant gift from Mrs. Patricia Carter on behalf of her late husband Ernest and their family and the generous support of the Sarnia-Lambton community that Bluewater Health was able to purchase the new mammography machines,” said Kathy Alexander, Executive Director, Bluewater Health Foundation. “Donations, attendance at events and a sold-out Dream Home lottery enabled the Foundation to achieve its $1.1 million dollar fundraising goal. The foundation is very grateful that the community contributed to these new machines that will benefit so many women in our community.”

About Bluewater Health
Bluewater Health, with locations in Sarnia and Petrolia, cares for the residents of Sarnia-Lambton. With close to 2,500 staff, Professional Staff and volunteers, Bluewater Health provides an array of specialized acute, complex continuing care, allied health and ambulatory care services. Bluewater Health’s Mission is: We create exemplary healthcare experiences with patients and families every time. For more information about Bluewater Health, visit www.bluewaterhealth.ca or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.