In This Section
BSGI
Breast-specific gamma imaging or molecular breast imaging is a diagnostic procedure performed as a follow-up study to a mammogram that detects cancer or is inconclusive in its findings. BSGI is used to detect:
- additional lesions missed by mammography and physical exam
- cancers that are difficult to detect using mammography.
The procedure involves the use of a radiotracer called Technetium-Tc99m-Sestamibi that is injected into the patient’s bloodstream and accumulates in cancerous tissue. Images acquired with a special gamma camera modified for breast imaging reveal abnormal areas where the radiotracer has distributed.
Advantages of BSGI
Recent studies have shown that BSGI is able to:
- identify breast cancers that are difficult for mammography to detect
- provide information that helps physicians and patients choose the most appropriate treatment plan.