New Technology Ensures Most Accurate Mammogram
Licking Memorial Hospital (LMH) is pleased to now offer Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT), also known as 3D Mammography exams. This ensures that local patients have access to the most accurate mammogram technology available. DBT has revolutionized how breast cancer is detected by providing a superior mammogram for all breast types. Researchers have found that the DBT exam provides the following benefits:
- 41 percent increase in the detection of invasive breast cancers, compared to 2D alone. Up to 40 percent reduction in anxiety-provoking false-positive recalls.
- In addition, the DBT exam is approved for all women undergoing a standard mammogram regardless of age or breast type.
A DBT exam is far more accurate in earlier breast cancer detection than any other type of mammogram. Similar to a traditional 2D mammogram, the technologist positions the patient, compresses the breast and takes images from different angles. The DBT exam captures multiple slices (images) of the breast, creating a layered 3D image. The radiologist then is able to review the breast, one thin slice at a time –
similar to turning pages in a book – which assists with a more accurate diagnosis. Unlike a traditional mammogram, which only allows a physician to view a single image of the top of the breast, the DBT exam allows for more detail to be seen, thus providing a view of all complexities of the breast tissue in a flat image.
No additional compression is required with the DBT exam, and it only takes a few seconds longer. Very little X-ray dose is used during the DBT exam – approximately the same amount used during a traditional film mammogram and well within the FDA safety standards for mammography.
Because some insurance plans may not cover this new technology, it may result in minimal out-of-pocket expense for some patients. For additional information about the DBT or 3D Mammography exam, please contact the LMH Radiology Department at (220) 564-4718.
| Posted On : 7/15/2016 5:16:19 PM