May 3, 2017 at 9:03 a.m.
Breast tomosynthesis produces a three-dimensional view of the breast tissue which helps radiologists identify and characterize individual breast structures without the confusion of overlapping tissue.
"We believe breast tomosynthesis will benefit all screening and diagnostic mammography patients, and is especially valuable for women receiving a baseline screening, those who have dense breast tissue and women with a personal history of breast cancer," Howard Young Medical Center medical director of diagnostic imaging Jonathan Currie, M.D. said.
Howard Young's breast tomosynthesis system is made by Hologic, a world leader in digital mammography. The Selenia Dimensions system offers exceptionally sharp breast images, an advanced ergonomic design providing more patient comfort, and the ground-breaking tomosynthesis platform designed to deliver superior screening and diagnostic performance for all breast types.
Large clinical studies in the U.S. and Europe have demonstrated the positive benefits of a Genius 3D Mammography exam. One large study on breast cancer screening using the Genius exam was published in the June 25, 2014 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). Findings include:
• A 41 percent increase in the detection of invasive breast cancers.
• A 29 percent increase in the detection of all breast cancers.
• A 15 percent decrease in women recalled for additional imaging.
"The tomosynthesis screening experience is similar to a traditional mammogram," HYMC manager of diagnostic imaging services Lauralee Pierquet said. "During a tomosynthesis exam, multiple, low-dose images of the breast are acquired at different angles. These images are then used to produce a series of one-millimeter thick slices that can be viewed as a 3D reconstruction of the breast."
"By offering women the latest and most advanced technology in mammography, we hope to detect breast cancer as early as possible on annual screening mammograms," Dr. Currie added. "Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, exceeded only by lung cancer and statistics indicate that one in eight women will develop breast cancer sometime in her lifetime. The stage at which breast cancer is detected influences a woman's chance of survival. If detected early, the five-year survival rate is more than 98 percent."
Howard Young is committed to the fight against breast cancer by offering 3-D screening and diagnostic mammography, breast ultrasound, ultrasound guided breast biopsies and breast magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, patients at Howard Young will benefit from the guidance of a breast care patient navigator.
If an irregularity is found on a diagnostic mammogram and a biopsy is recommended, patients are referred to a breast care patient navigator, who will help facilitate and coordinate breast health needs. As nurse educators, breast care patient navigators provide facts and support decisions; schedule diagnostic testing and surgeries; identify resources for financial concerns; make referrals to community resources and provide support.
"Facing the complexities of breast care alone can be overwhelming and frightening," Pierquet said. "Our navigator is committed to providing comprehensive information while providing emotional support to our patients and their family."
In offering 3-D breast tomosynthesis digital mammography, Howard Young provides the latest in imaging technology.
Access to this level of technology in the Northwoods was made possible through the efforts of the Women's Legacy Council of the Howard Young Foundation.
The Here & Now mammography campaign in partnership with Howard Young Medical Center raised the necessary funds to acquire this technology as a gift to the amazing women in the community. All funds were matched dollar for dollar by Ministry Health Care, part of Ascension.
The Here & Now mammography campaign also provided necessary funds for the remodeling of the imaging department, creating a suite where all needing this technology feel comfortable and secure.
"We are grateful for the support of the Women's Legacy Council and the addition of this technology and related improvements will instill another sense of confidence for our patients and family members who depend on the services we provide," HYMC president Sandy Anderson said.
To schedule a mammogram or have questions about this important breast health procedure, please call 715-356-8020.
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