When a diagnosis of cancer is made, we are faced not only with finding out that we or someone we love has the disease; we are also faced with finding the support to help ourselves or a loved one get through the battle that is about to begin. Princeton Community Hospital is here to provide advanced support and encouragement to patients and their loved ones, while providing the care that this community has grown to trust.
Pathology
Pathologists play a key role in the diagnosis of cancer. They examine tissue samples for cancerous cells. Once the diagnosis is made, they help determine the stage of the disease. They also document and track cancer cases that are diagnosed in our area and contribute to the National Tumor Registry. The pathologists conduct tumor board conferences where newly diagnosed cases are discussed by a panel of physicians from various specialties. This group creates a plan of care for each patient.
Radiology
The skill of the radiologists combined with remarkable advances in technology have enabled the Medical Imaging Department to provide a significant contribution in the diagnosis of cancer. PCH’s Medical Imaging Department has the latest in CT, MRI, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine technology. With the help of this modern technology, interventional radiologists are able to perform biopsies that are less invasive than traditional procedures. Diagnostic procedures at PCH often involve minimal discomfort and great accuracy.
Endoscopy
Endoscopy is another key procedure in diagnosing cancer. With the use of a scope, physicians of various specialities can visualize the head & neck, the air passages, the chest, the abdomen, the gastrointestinal system, and the urinary bladder. Any tumor within these regions can be seen and biopsied. This procedure is usually done on an out-patient basis.
