The addition of a new physician to the staff at St. Anthony Regional Hospital means that patients will be able to have breast needle biopsies performed much closer to home. In the past, a needle biopsy would require a trip to Ames, Des Moines or Omaha, Neb., but surgeon, Dr. Patricia Teschke, can perform these for men and women who have abnormal findings. “Very few hospitals of our size have the capability to provide this needle biopsy procedure,” Dr. Teschke says. “It reduces the number of surgical procedures and allows all health care providers involved in the treatment plan to discuss care prior to surgery, ensuring everyone is on the same page and the patient understands the process in the road to treating cancer.” Lori Pietig, St. Anthony Radiology Director, says that once ordered, Dr. Teschke will perform the minimally invasive, outpatient procedure using only local anesthesia. Ultrasound technology is used to guide the needle to the abnormality. Dr. Teschke may also place a marker clip to identify the area in case surgery is needed in the future.
