CancerPlans.com announced today that cancer imaging experts at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new method for analyzing breast tumors via laser technology. The procedure can pinpoint whether or not tumors have spread in lymph nodes, helping breast cancer patients avoid unnecessary surgery.
The study used crisscrossing optical laser beams to measure the collagen fibers in breast-tumor connective tissue. Women whose cancer had metastasized (spread to other organs) had 10% greater fiber density than women with non-spreading cancer.
By analyzing tumors early, the new technique can prevent invasive surgical procedures like lymph node biopsy. Biopsy complications can include swelling, infection, lymph fluid leakage and permanent pain or stiffness.
The study's results were released November 1st in the Journal of Biomedical Optics.
"Our new diagnostic technique has the potential to help reassure thousands of breast cancer patients that their cancers have not spread to other organs," explains study senior investigator Kristine Glunde, Ph.D. "[The procedure] could help them avoid the risks and pain currently involved in direct inspections of lymph nodes for the presence of cancerous cells."
CancerPlans.com president Cary Rentner expressed enthusiasm over the study's findings.
"The CancerPlans.com team applauds Johns Hopkins for their dedication," Rentner says. "Here at CancerPlans.com, we're delighted to provide insurance that helps patients pay for breakthrough procedures like this one. Too often, traditional health insurance won't cover this type of valuable treatment – and that's when cancer insurance can help patients most."
Cancer insurance is an affordable insurance product that offers a lump sum benefit upon first diagnosis of cancer. Patients can spend the benefit check however they choose – for medical treatments or procedures that standard insurance won't cover, or for lifestyle expenses like food, clothing and rent. A cancer insurance policy can act as a stand-alone insurance option, or as a supplement to traditional health insurance.
About Johns Hopkins University: Founded in 1889, Johns Hopkins Medicine is a unique, internati women's jackets onally renowned medical system that includes comprehensive facilities for research, education and patient treatment. The integrated Johns Hopkins Health System includes hospital and medical school facilities staffed by world-class scientists and health professionals.
About CancerPlans.com: CancerPlans.com is a nationally licensed, independent supplemental insurance agency that allows customers to quote, compare and apply for cancer insurance and critical illness insurance policies in one location online. On CancerPlans.com, users can compare top-rated insurance carriers, communicate with different companies and apply for the policy that best fits their budget, age and location. CancerPlans.com's proprietary, streamlined technology makes it easy to find the right insurance policy quickly.
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