Brain Lab technology that uses infrared sensors to pinpoint crucial anatomical points in hip, knee and sinus surgery and digital mammograms that allow women to have the best information possible are now available at Fauquier Hospital.

The Cherry Blossom Breast Cancer Fund contributed $50,000 of the $500,000 needed for each of the two digital mammography tools, and the Fauquier Health Foundation raised more than $96,000 for the new system.

Women who turn forty years of age in 2009 will receive a special birthday gift of a free screening mammogram at Fauquier Health. Simply ask your doctor for an order and telephone 540 316 5800 to make an appointment.

Orthopedic surgeon James Ramser is enthusiastic about Brain Lab.

"This new technology allows a surgeon to do everything better," he says. Infrared sensors pinpoint the exact locations of crucial anatomical points. During surgery, doctors can view a computer screen that shows exactly where bones and implants are inside the patient, allowing surgeons to tailor the size and positioning of implants to the specific anatomy of each patient.

Brain Lab is also a tremendous technological asset in knee and sinus Surgery. Dr. Christopher Change, an ear, nose and throat specialist used the Brain Lab at Duke University before he began using the procedure at Fauquier Hospital.

"This is a great tool for sinus surgery," he explained. "It allows the surgeon to be most precise. I can see exactly where the tip of the surgical instrument is at all times, in three dimensions." This is especially important since sinuses are so close to the brain and eyes.

"Fauquier Hospital is committed to new technology," says Dr. Ramser. "Brain Lab is a fantastic tool. It lets you see what you can't see."