“These pieces of equipment have the potential for life-saving intervention.”
Dr. Sarah Kean, Medical Lead of Cervix Check Manitoba, demonstrates HSC Women’s Hospital’s current colposcope, which has been in use for more than 20 years.
Receiving an abnormal Pap test result can trigger a wave of anxiety and uncertainty, leaving many women fearful of what’s next. In Manitoba, one-in-four women will receive an abnormal Pap test result in their lifetime.
For many, the next step in their health journey is a colposcopy—a vital diagnostic procedure that provides a clearer, more detailed view of the cervix, helping guide the path to accurate diagnosis and care.
“High-quality colposcopies are essential for prevention and treatment of cervical cancer,” emphasizes Dr. Margaret Burnett, Head of Gynecology at HSC Women’s Hospital.
Currently, we are seeking to upgrade HSC Women’s Hospital’s operating room’s colposcope, a special microscope to conduct the colposcopy procedure. The current colposcope has been in use for more than 20 years.
Dr. Sarah Kean, Medical Lead of Cervix Check Manitoba, using a dated colposcope at HSC Women’s Hospital.
The new technology would provide high-definition images in real-time, enhancing diagnosis and improving how physicians share examination results with patients. This immediate feedback fosters a better connection, enabling patients to ask questions and feel more involved in their care.
If precancerous cells are detected, patients often require surgery using traditional techniques. However, with donor support, HSC hopes to acquire a precision surgical tool called a micromanipulator. This advanced tool allows surgeons to treat abnormal growths while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue, reducing complications, and improving recovery times.
“These pieces of equipment have the potential for life-saving intervention,” says Dr. Burnett.
On Giving Tuesday, the annual global day of giving following Black Friday, the HSC Foundation is seeking to raise funds to acquire three essential pieces of equipment for HSC Women’s Hospital: a specialized colposcope to help prevent and treat cancer; a micromanipulator to perform delicate procedures; and a cystoscope to treat patients with endometriosis and complications related to high-risk pregnancies.
On Dec. 3, Giving Tuesday, please support the HSC Foundation to help the many Manitobans who rely on the care of HSC Women’s Hospital. This year, your gift will be matched up to $25,000! All online or called-in Giving Tuesday donations will be matched by an anonymous donor, up to $20,000. All texted-in donations will be matched up to $5,000 by Manitoba pork producers. Text HSCF to 20222 to donate $25 now (tax receipts will be issued by the Mobile Giving Foundation). To donate:
- Click here and select Giving Tuesday on the “Donation Designation” dropdown menu
- Call us at 204-515-5612 or toll-free at 1-800-679-8493
