3D Mammography Now Offered at Northeast Regional Medical Center
3/9/2022
3D Mammography exams may increase invasive cancer detection and reduce recall rates.
KIRKSVILLE, Mo. (March 9, 2022) - Northeast Regional Medical Center is now offering 3D mammography exams. Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology, 3D exams are clinically proven to significantly increase the detection of breast cancers, and also decrease the number of women asked to return for additional testing.
In conventional 2D mammography, overlapping tissue is a leading reason why small breast cancers may be missed and normal tissue may appear abnormal, leading to unnecessary callbacks. NRMC’s new exam includes a three-dimensional method of imaging that can greatly reduce the tissue overlap effect.
“We are excited to offer 3D technology and further enhance the care we provide to the women in our community,” says Tony Keene, CEO at NRMC. “Our 3D mammography service may make it possible for earlier detection, which would allow for earlier treatment. I have personally experienced the pain and the loss of seeing loved ones struggle and succumb to breast cancer so being able to provide this technology to our community means so much to me. ”
A 3D exam includes both 2D images and tomosynthesis scans. During the tomosynthesis-dimensional portion of the exam, an X-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple images. A computer then converts the images into a stack of thin layers, allowing the radiologist to review the breast tissue one layer at a time. The 3D exam requires no additional compression and takes just a few seconds longer than a conventional 2D breast cancer screening exam.
3D mammography changes how breast cancer is detected by providing another option for women of all breast densities compared to 2D alone. Researchers have found that:
3D mammography exams may find 20-65% more invasive breast cancers compared to 2D alone, an average increase of 41%.
3D mammography exams are FDA approved as superior for women with dense breasts compared to 2D alone.
3D mammography exams may reduce callbacks by up to 40% compared to 2D alone.
NRMC is committed to the fight against breast cancer. In offering the 3D mammography exam, NRMC provides an additional tool for breast cancer screening.
If you would like to schedule a 3D mammography exam or have questions about this important breast health procedure, contact (660) 785-1279.
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