Technology helps surgeons pinpoint cancerous tumors

Owensboro Health has acquired the first CT (3D) breast specimen imaging system in Kentucky. The Clarix Imaging® VSI-360 breast specimen imaging system will help breast cancer surgeons identify tumors more easily during lumpectomy procedures and provide patients with greater peace of mind by knowing they are less likely to need additional procedures later.

The Clarix Imaging® VSI-360 breast specimen imaging system uses advanced, proprietary software and high-resolution imaging to give doctors detailed, real-time information about body tissues during surgery. This innovative technology creates full-3D and thin-slice, cross-sectional visualization of the tissue at a 360-degree angle, which means doctors can see tiny details and make better decisions with pinpoint accuracy during surgery, thereby reducing the risk of complications and second surgeries.

"This new technology gives me a much clearer view of what's happening inside the body," said Dr. Chris Glaser, general surgeon with Owensboro Health Surgical Specialists. "This allows me to confidently determine and confirm that all traces of a breast cancer tumor have been removed."

What is the VSI-360?

The VSI-360 is a cutting-edge medical imaging system that uses advanced software and high-resolution imaging to give doctors detailed, real-time information about body tissues during surgery. This technology creates 3D images of the tissue, which means doctors can see every tiny detail and make better decisions with pinpoint accuracy during surgery, reducing the risk of complications and second surgeries.

Owensboro Health General Surgeon Dr. Chris Glaser advocated for the Clarix Imaging system, while the health system wholeheartedly supported adding the new technology to improve patient outcomes.

Benefits for Patients

• Safer surgeries: By giving doctors a better view of what's happening inside the body, the VSI-360 reduces the risk of damaging healthy tissues or leaving behind unhealthy ones.
• Fewer follow-up surgeries: With the VSI-360, doctors can get all the information they need during the first surgery, making patients less likely to need additional procedures later.
• Faster recovery times: Because surgeries using the VSI-360 are more precise and accurate, patients may recover more quickly and spend less time in the hospital.

Benefits for Surgeons

• More efficient surgeries: The VSI-360's real-time 3D imaging helps doctors make better decisions during surgery, which means they can work more efficiently and reduce the risk of complications.
• Optimized workflow: The VSI-360 works well with other surgical tools and equipment, making it easy for doctors to use during procedures and reducing the risk of human error.
• Ongoing updates and support: Clarix Imaging is dedicated to making the VSI-360 even better by providing regular software updates and expert help to ensure doctors always have the latest and greatest technology at their fingertips.

With its many advantages, the VSI-360 is set to become a must-have tool for medical professionals worldwide, helping improve patient care and make surgeries more effective. While the VSI-360 is transforming surgical procedures, it's important to remember that prevention and early detection are crucial in maintaining optimal health. For women, the most essential preventive measure is getting an annual mammogram.

Regular mammograms can help detect breast cancer early when it's easier to treat and has a higher chance of being cured. By catching potential issues early, mammograms can save lives and reduce the need for more invasive treatments. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is up to 99%.

As medical technology advances, tools like the VSI-360 and the emphasis on preventive care, such as annual mammograms, will work hand-in-hand to improve overall healthcare and ensure better patient outcomes. If you are ready to schedule your annual mammogram, we encourage you to do so at OwensboroHealth.org/Mammo.

Free Gift in October

To show our support during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, all women who get a mammogram in October will receive the gift of a bento box.