A new three-year breast cancer treatment pilot project at Chinook Regional Hospital is the second of its kind in Alberta.
The Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation and Alberta Health Services announced Friday the launch of the Magseed and Magtrace pilot project. The Magseed technology used in the trial — tiny rice-sized devices — will help surgeons accurately locate breast tumours or lymph nodes without causing patients discomfort. Officials say this will reduce the risks associated with traditional hook wires. The new method removes the need for same-day travel between imaging and surgery, allows devices to be placed days before surgery and eliminates the risk of displacement.
The hospital expects to perform the first Magseed insertions in early December, with corresponding surgeries to follow. General surgeon Dr. Tony Gomes said the use of Magseed offers greater accuracy for doctors and more comfort for patients, improving their care journey.
“Magseed and Magtrace, we can offer patients a less stressful, more precise, and more breast-preserving surgical experience,” Gomes said. “It’s not just about removing a tumour, it’s about protecting a woman’s sense of self during one of the hardest moments of her life.”
Lethbridge is now the second place to use this technology in Alberta, he said, allowing health care in the region to match services in major urban centres, with Calgary being the first centre in the province to use it.
CRHF chief executive officer Crystal Elliot said philanthropy from the community made the pilot project possible and is an example of what can be done to improve care, outcomes and patient experiences.
“Because of the generosity of our donors, patients in southern Alberta can now access leading-edge breast cancer surgery close to home,” Elliot said.
Donor funding has covered the purchase of equipment, Magseed and Magtrace supplies, specialist training and full implementation for the duration of the project.
