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BCH Now Has 3D Mammography

September 28, 2017

Boone County Hospital is excited to offer Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exams, developed by Hologic, Inc., a worldwide leader in women’s health. Utilizing advanced breast technology, Genius exams are clinically proven to significantly increase the detection of breast cancers, while simultaneously decreasing 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. A Genius exam includes a three-dimensional method of imaging that can greatly reduce the tissue overlap effect.

A Genius 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. A Genius exam requires no additional compression and takes just a few seconds longer than a conventional 2D breast cancer-screening exam.

The Hologic system is the only clinically superior breast tomosynthesis system as approved by the FDA. The new system is recommended for women of all ages and breast densities. The system allows radiologists to more effectively pinpoint the size, shape and location of abnormalities. This leads to better detection and greater peace of mind for our patients.

Large clinical studies in the U.S. and Europe have demonstrated the positive benefits of a Genius 3D mammography™ exam. The largest study to date 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% increase in the detection of invasive breast cancers.
  • A 29% increase in the detection of all breast cancers.
  • A 15% decrease in women recalled for additional imaging.

BCH is committed to the fight against breast cancer. “We are so excited to be able to offer the latest in 3D mammography,” says Teresa Beem, BCH Radiology Director. “Our patients now can receive a more accurate tool for breast screening and know they are getting the best technical imaging possible to detect breast cancer.”

If you would like to schedule your 3D mammography, or have questions about this important breast health procedure, please contact BCH at (515) 433-8440.

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