Morristown-Hamblen West Diagnostic Center Unveils Advanced Breast Biopsy Technology
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- Last Updated: 8/28/2025
Donations to Morristown-Hamblen Hospital Foundation Help Facilitate Purchase of New Equipment
Morristown, TN —The Morristown-Hamblen West Diagnostic Center, part of Covenant Health, announces the acquisition of a state-of-the-art stereotactic breast biopsy table. The table facilitates minimally invasive procedures to obtain tissue samples from breast abnormalities for examination and follow-up care.
The acquisition was made possible through generous contributions to the Morristown-Hamblen Hospital Foundation. The new system allows patients to receive high quality care locally, eliminating the need to travel to Knoxville for diagnostic procedures.
“The Morristown-Hamblen Hospital Foundation was thrilled to be able to help purchase the stereotactic biopsy table,” said Haley Fugate, development manager, Covenant Health Office of Philanthropy. “Contributions throughout the year—from event sponsorships like our Gala and golf tournament to our incredible individual donors—make these initiatives possible.
“It’s incredible to have technology like this in the Lakeway area, keeping our patients close to home,” Fugate continued. “The continued support from our community never goes unnoticed, and we cannot say ‘thank you’ enough!”
The total cost of the stereotactic breast biopsy system was $272,000; the Morristown-Hamblen Hospital Foundation contributed $75,000 toward its purchase. While this generous support covered a significant portion, it did not cover the full expense, highlighting the critical role of community fundraising and donor generosity in bringing advanced medical technology to the Lakeway area.
About the Stereotactic Breast Biopsy Table
The advanced equipment enables image-guided, minimally invasive breast biopsies. Specially trained radiologists perform the procedures, which are typically completed in less than an hour. The new biopsy table integrates cutting-edge imaging and targeting technologies to ensure precision, comfort, and efficiency.
Key features include:
- Digital Spot Mammography (DSM): Enhances image clarity and structure definition (e.g., location, size and boundaries) for accurate targeting of tissue lesions.
- Automated Tube-Head Motion & One-Click Targeting: Streamlines procedures and reduces manual errors.
- 360° Breast Access: Allows clinicians to reach even the most challenging lesion locations without repositioning the patient.
- Adjustable Tray and Compression Paddles: Accommodates variable breast thicknesses and minimizes radiation scatter for improved image quality.
- Tomosynthesis (3D imaging) Capability: Offers a field of view over 6.5 times larger than older systems. This expanded view enables visualization of subtle lesions and calcifications.
- Patient Comfort Design: Eliminates direct view of the biopsy needle, reduces compression time, and improves emotional comfort during procedures.
Benefits of the Stereotactic Breast Biopsy System Include:
- Minimally invasive procedure with little or no scarring
- Completed in less than an hour on an outpatient basis
- Ideal for evaluating calcium deposits or masses not visible with ultrasound
- One-third the cost of open surgical biopsy
- Minimal recovery time and low discomfort
- No distortion of breast tissue, preserving future mammogram accuracy
- No residual radiation exposure
“We are deeply grateful to the Morristown-Hamblen Foundation and its generous donors for making the acquisition of our new biopsy table a reality,” said Acoya Lamb, imaging supervisor at Morristown-Hamblen West Diagnostic Center. “This advanced equipment will greatly enhance the quality of care we offer our patients, and we’re incredibly proud to have it available right here in Morristown.”
About Morristown-Hamblen
Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System is a member of Covenant Health and serves as a regional referral center for the Lakeway area. With a commitment to excellence in patient care, the hospital offers a wide range of medical services and specialties, supported by advanced technology and a dedicated team of healthcare professionals. Morristown-Hamblen is consistently recognized for its quality, safety, and compassionate care.
About Morristown-Hamblen Hospital Foundation
The Foundation supports Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System by funding equipment, programs, and services that enhance patient care. Through community events and donor generosity, the Foundation continues to make a lasting impact on local healthcare.
