Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Commack

Our Breast Cancer Services Learn about the services we offer for breast cancer patients at Commack more

Patients with breast cancer can receive preoperative evaluations, surgical planning, and postoperative care at Commack. All major surgeries are performed at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan. However, some minor surgical procedures (those that require only local anesthesia) can be performed at Commack. Plastic surgery consultations for breast reconstructions take place in our Manhattan location, although some post-operative care for plastic surgery can be provided at Commack.

Lymphedema, a condition in which excess fluid collects in tissue and causes swelling, is a common side effect of breast cancer treatment. We have an on-site physical therapist at Commack who helps patients cope with lymphedema.

	Dr. Philip Schulman at the reception desk with nurse Deborah Havranek and receptionist Patricia Warish

Imaging technology at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Commack includes:

• CT (computed tomography)
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
• digital x-ray
• mammography
• stereotactic mammagraphy
• ultrasound

Radiation Oncology

Our state-of-the-art linear accelerators use high-energy radiation to treat patients. CT-based treatment planning is used to help map and deliver intensity modulated radiation treatments. These techniques conform the dose of radiation around the target while avoiding healthy tissue, allowing higher doses to be delivered safely.

A sophisticated technique of radiation delivery called image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) is also being used at Commack. IGRT uses radiology imaging (x-ray and/or CT scans) taken immediately before treatment to guide radiation with even greater precision.

Radiation oncologists collaborate closely with their colleagues throughout the Memorial Sloan-Kettering network of facilities and conduct rigorous reviews to assure that patient care is always optimized.

Cancer Risk Counseling

For people concerned about their personal and/or family history of cancer, genetic counseling is offered at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Commack. Genetic counseling may be helpful for individuals making medical decisions about how to manage their risk for cancer. Hereditary risk assessment and genetic counseling are also offered at Commack by means of video conference with experts at Memorial Sloan-Kettering in Manhattan.

For more information about our Clinical Genetics Service, visit the Hereditary Cancer & Genetics section of the Web site.

Support Services

A full-time social worker offers counseling and support to patients and family members coping with the spectrum of issues related to life during and after treatment. In addition, regular support groups are offered at Commack. Patients can participate in the Look Good...Feel Better program, which helps cancer patients cope with the effects that treatment can have on their appearance.