The Windsor and Essex County Cancer Foundation is proud to announce the purchase of a new tool for the MRI scanner for the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre. The “breast coil” is a combination of hardware and software, including CAD. It will mainly be used to scan for “hard to detect” breast tumours. Margaret Williams, President of the Windsor and Essex County Cancer Centre Foundation, announced that the full cost of this technology the purchase price of $216,000, had been raised in the community. She cited The Circle of Seven as the first donors to step forward, with funds from the Ferguson Golf Tournament. Mr. Anthony P. Toldo also made a generous donation and he challenged others to follow his lead. He felt strongly that this type of breast imaging should be available for women locally, as soon as possible, and that they should not have to travel to Toronto if an MRI is required. As well, a bequest came from the estate of Mr. Norman Dietrich. The Cancer Centre Foundation, raised the remaining funds through donations and events.

Director of Medical Imaging, Dr. Winston Ramsewak, explained that MRI of the breast is not a replacement for a mammogram or ultrasound examination, but rather is a supplementary tool for detecting and monitoring breast cancer and other abnormalities. Specific indication guidelines have been developed to ensure accurate and timely access to this valuable tool. The breast coil itself is part of a mobile table on which the patient is positioned. It utilizes advanced imaging software and CADstream, allowing for accurate analysis and reporting of MRI breast exams.

Dr. Kenneth Schneider, Chief of Oncology, praised the recent advances in diagnostic imaging with the new 64 slice CT scanner and the MRI. Both have had a positive impact on cancer diagnosis and treatment. The addition of the breast coil will mean that greater numbers of women with breast cancer can be diagnosed quickly and accurately right here in Windsor.