Breast Center at Wheeling Hospital
The Breast Center at Wheeling Hospital provides a comprehensive approach to breast health. Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women in the U.S. Early detection is the single most important component to improving survival and optimizing the quality of life.
The Breast Center facilitates rapid surgical consultations and, when appropriate, same-day interventions, all in one location. The result is more timely diagnosis and the easing of anxiety for women with a breast abnormality.
Diagnostic studies, surgical interventions and follow-up are provided by a surgeon specializing in breast care.
- A surgeon is available Monday, Tuesday and Friday mornings for consultation in the Breast Center.
- If the patient and the surgeon both agree that a biopsy is the appropriate plan of care, the Breast Center is prepared for the patient to have the diagnostic procedure performed on the day of the consultation visit.
- Biopsies can be performed by core biopsy, sterotactic needle biopsy, or needle localization and excisional biopsy. In addition, ultrasound-guided needle biopsies are now available. The type of biopsy recommended is normally determined by the type and location of the questionable lesion. Cyst aspiration can often be performed in the Breast Center.
- For each patient, the Breast Center team coordinates a multidisciplinary treatment plan. Depending on the specific case, the team may include specialists in radiology, surgery, pathology, oncology, social services, support networks, as well as other professionals.
- Appointments can be scheduled at the Breast Center normally within five days of request and pathology results are often available within 48 hours of the procedure.
- The Breast Center nurse coordinator provides educational materials and personalized care, helping patients navigate the various aspects of their treatment plans.
- Individuals may be seen in the Breast Center by physician referral or self-referral, depending on their health insurance requirements.
Inquiries can be made by calling 304-243-5115, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Staff
The Breast Center is staffed with a full-time, oncology-certified registered nurse.
Dr. David Ghaphery is medical director of the Breast Center.
Breast Center
The Breast Center at Wheeling Hospital facilitates rapid surgical consultations and, when appropriate, same-day interventions, all in one location. The result is more timely diagnosis and the easing of anxiety for women with a breast abnormality. Diagnostic studies, surgical interventions and follow-up are provided by a surgeon specializing in breast care.