Montclair, N.J.-based Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center has unveiled Cerianna, a breast imaging technology from GE HealthCare that helps physician detect and localize breast lesions. Specifically, the technology enables the identification and localization of cancerous lesions through molecular breast imaging, helping physicians to devise personalized treatment plans.
Cerianna employs an imaging agent that binds to cancer cells and emits gamma-ray signals, enabling precise localization and characterization of estrogen receptor- (ER) positive lesions in patients with recurrent or metastatic breast cancer. This advanced method offers advanced sensitivity, making it a helpful tool for accurate tumor detection, staging, and monitoring treatment response.
Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center CEO Tim O’Brien stresses the significance of introducing such advanced technology to a community hospital. “At Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center, we are dedicated to ensuring that our patients have access to innovative and effective healthcare solutions close to home,” he says. “By introducing Cerianna, we are taking a significant stride forward in the fight against breast cancer, providing our community with a crucial resource that eliminates the need for patients to travel for specialized care.”
The availability of Cerianna at Mountainside Medical Center marks a turning point for women in the community diagnosed with breast cancer. Previously, patients had to travel considerable distances to access similar technology. Now, they can benefit from this advanced tool within their own community, receiving expert care and personalized treatment plans from a team of dedicated professionals.
“With the introduction of Cerianna, we eliminate the need for our community members to travel for specialized care, bringing cutting-edge breast imaging right to their doorstep,” says Ann Chuang, M.D., breast surgeon and medical director of Mountainside’s Breast Program.
Mountainside Medical Center’s Cancer Program holds accreditation by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer with commendation, a designation awarded to only about one-quarter of all cancer care hospitals nationwide. Moreover, a multidisciplinary team collaborates from screening and early detection through treatment and post-rehabilitation to provide an individualized care plan for each patient.
The program offers a collaborative case review, advanced diagnostic resources, access to clinical trials, counseling and psychosocial services, infusion services, radiation oncology, genetic counseling, palliative support, nutrition education, and counseling, among other services.
