The Breast Center at St. Joseph-s Women-s Hospital provides accessible breast care for women of all ages. The center is staffed by physicians, radiologists and an on-site nurse navigator who specializes in breast services.

Through our multidisciplinary approach and state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic services, patients can receive accurate diagnosis and immediate care. We provide a full range of care – from mammograms to education – everything a woman needs for good breast health.

To make an appointment, please call (813) 872-3700. For more information about breast diagnostic procedures, breast cancer and other topics relating to breast health, please visit our comprehensive breast cancer resource center located in the St. Joseph-s Women-s Hospital Breast Center.

Diagnostic Services
The breast Center at St. Joseph-s Women-s Hospital provides mammography and ultrasound services, as well as comprehensive biopsy procedures.

• Mammograms with Computer Aided Detection - an X-ray of the breast, which can detect a tumor or mass even before it can be felt or seen. Both screening and diagnostic mammograms are available at the Breast Center. 
• Ultrasound - helps to detect whether a mass contains fluid (a cyst) or is solid (a benign or malignant tumor).
• Stereotactic Biopsy - X -ray images are taken from two angles to obtain a more detailed view of a breast mass, in order to determine if further treatment is necessary. During the procedure, your breasts will be compressed with a special mammography machine while stereo X-ray pictures are taken at angles. Once suspicious area is identified, the information is entered into a computer that will calculate the exact needle injection location. Once identified, an instrument moves the biopsy needle in position and removes the tissue. Because stereotactic uses a needle, damage to nearby tissue is minimal.
• Ultrasound Guided Biopsy - a nonsurgical procedure to remove a sample of the breast mass for microscopic examination.
• Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy - a narrow needle and syringe are used to withdraw cells and fluid from the mass using local anesthetic.
• Needle Localization - a small needle is inserted into the breast and a wire is positioned to mark the suspicious area. The wire guides the surgeon during a surgical biopsy.

Surgical Services
If surgery is necessary, our services include biopsy, mastectomy, lymph node surgery, breast reconstruction and cosmetic surgery for breast reduction or enlargement.

• Breast Biopsy - surgical removal of suspicious breast tissue for testing.
• Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy - removal of the sentinel nodes- those closest to the tumor-to determine whether additional surgery or treatment is needed.
• Lumpectomy - surgery to remove the breast tumor and a small amount of surrounding normal tissue. Also referred to as breast conservation therapy.
• Mastectomy - surgical removal of the breast.
• Cosmetic Surgery - includes breast augmentation (enlargement), reduction or lift procedures.

Oncology Services
The Cancer Institute at St. Joseph 's Hospital has a comprehensive program accredited by the American College of Surgeons. Inpatient and outpatient services include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, and educational and emotional support.

Lymphedema Program
Caused by damaged lymph nodes and accumulation of fluids, lymphedema is a painful condition affecting some women after surgery or radiation therapy. We offer treatment options, including manual lymph drainage and compression therapy, as well as education on skin care, remedial exercises and home care. To speak with a certified lymphedema therapist, please call (813) 870-4877.

Patient Resource Center
Access information on all aspects of your health in our patient resource center, which is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Services include a comprehensive library of educational materials. Referrals to supportive services, education on nutrition, fitness and rehabilitation, as well as prosthesis fittings are also available.

To have educational materials relating to breast health mailed or faxed to you, please contact Susan Baker at (813) 872-3715.