New at Hillel Yaffe: Breast Imaging Unit

Hillel Yaffe Medical Center's Imaging Institute recently opened its Breast Imaging Unit, which is yet another component of the improved service it offers patients who need this essential service. The unit is headed by Dr. Natalia  Kochnovski, who specializes in imaging and breast imaging.

The Breast Imaging Unit is engaged in early detection of breast cancer, using new technologies and several types of imaging such as digital mammography, including tomosynthesis for screening and diagnosis, ultrasound, ultrasound-guided biopsy and mammography with tomosynthesis, marking prior to surgery, placement of clips prior to chemotherapy and more.

The mammography system purchased for the Institute is one of the newest in Israel. The technology it uses enables improved diagnosis of breast cancer due to the use of tomosynthesis - a new technology that is particularly good for women with dense breast tissue (more gland tissue than fatty tissue). This condition is especially typical of young women, but also for some menopausal women receiving hormone therapy.

Additionally, the jewel in the Institute's crown, is the test to diagnose women with dense breast tissue - automatic robotic ultrasound for screening the entire area of the breast. This is a new test, performed using the only device of its kind in Israel. It facilitates automatic screening of the breasts and digital reconstruction of the breast area.  

Furthermore, the Unit also uses a new type of test - contrast-enhanced mammography. This test is performed when suggested by a radiologist who specializes in breast imaging when there are special circumstances. It makes it possible to complete the investigation and obtain a more accurate diagnosis.

A mammogram taken at the new Imaging Unit

Dr. Alicia Nachtigal, Director of the Imaging Institute at Hillel Yaffe said, "The combination of innovative equipment and the multidisciplinary staff that operates it enables us to provide a high-level professional response for breast imaging for all our customers. Since opening of the Institute, we can now also work together with general practitioners and breast surgeons in the community, who can refer patients to us and receive accurate and rapid results. Furthermore, we are also able to provide a comprehensive and professional response at the hospital through staff from other units, including the Oncology Unit, MRI Unit, the Surgery Division and Pathology Institute."

As previously mentioned, the unit is staffed by a multidisciplinary team, which aside from Dr. Kochnovski also includes Ms. Tagrid Younis, who serves as Head Radiographer, nursing staff and secretaries.

Dr. Kochnovski said, "For the comfort of the patients, the technicians and physicians are mainly women. In this respect, the women who come to us receive not only professional treatment and cutting-edge technology, but also warm and personal care. We demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism and sensitivity, knowing that the results of the tests could be fateful for some of the patients." The equipment at the Institute was purchased through the generosity of the Dotan Family of Reuth.

A visit to the Breast Imaging Unit requires a referral from the attending physician (general practitioner, oncologist, surgeon) and a referral from the medical insurer for performance of the test. Breast volume tests require a payment that depends on the type of test.

For additional information and to schedule an appointment: Telephone: 04-6188322

The Unit's Admission Office