Message from Section Chief

Message from Section Chief

At VCU Health, our Breast Imaging team is dedicated to early detection using advanced imaging technology. Our sole focus is on breast imaging, providing personalized, expert care for every patient.

When breast cancer is found early, survival rates approach 100 percent, and treatment is often easier with fewer side effects. That is why early detection is not just our goal; it is our mission, one we are proud to continue by training the next generation of breast imaging specialists.

Making that mission possible takes a team. By working closely with surgeons, oncologists, and nurse navigators, and by using the most advanced technology available, we deliver coordinated care that streamlines the patient experience, ensuring personalized care plans and the best possible outcomes. ~ Kelley Z. Allison, M.D.

Overview

The VCU Department of Radiology’s breast imaging section provides patients with personalized, high-quality breast health evaluations. We are part of an interdisciplinary team at the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center that includes pathologists, surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, plastic surgeons, nurses and geneticists — all with special training in breast cancer.

We are the first facility in Virginia with breast magnetic resonance imaging (breast MRI) American College of Radiology (ACR) accreditation, as well as Richmond, Virginia’s first breast imaging facility to earn the ACR Breast Imaging Center of Excellence designation.

Procedures

Our breast imaging section offers a variety of imaging services and procedures to aid in the early detection of breast cancer and evaluation of related symptoms. Patients are priority, and we provide results for most biopsies within 24 hours.

Tomosynthesis (3-D mammography) is a relatively new technique that can be done as part of screening or diagnostic mammography. It is an x-ray study of the breast that takes thin image slices through the breast tissue so it can be evaluated more thoroughly.

Imaging Services and Image-guided Procedures

Fellowship in Breast Imaging

The one-year breast imaging fellowship program at VCU Health is exciting, thriving, progressive and patient-centered. We offer screening and diagnostic mammography, including tomosynthesis, breast ultrasound, breast MRI, image-guided breast and axillary biopsies and fine needle aspirations, ductography, preoperative localizations and second opinion consultations. We provide breast imaging services at VCU Health's Nelson Center, Stony Point and Tappahannock.

Learn About Our Breast Imaging Fellowship

Breast Imaging Faculty