Northwest Medical Center – Bentonville Now Offers 3D mammography
1/19/2022
BENTONVILLE, Ark. – Three-dimensional (3D) mammography is now available in the imaging department at Northwest Medical Center – Bentonville (NMC-B). Breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography) helps detect breast cancer in its earliest most treatable stages by producing a 3D view of breast tissue enhancing the images radiologists review.
“What I like about this new technology is that it helps our doctors identify and characterize individual breast structures without tissue overlapping, which can happen in two-dimensional exams,” said Northwest Health Market Imaging Director Tyra Bowen. “This overlapping tissue is a reason why small breast cancers may be missed and normal tissue may appear abnormal.”
When radiologists receive the images after a 3D mammogram, the new computer converts those pictures into a stack of thin layers so the patient’s tissue can be reviewed one layer at a time. Fine details become more visible and no longer hidden by the tissue above or below.
NMC-B Radiology Manager Angela Brackin noted that 3D mammography is also a great option for women with dense breast tissue and can reduce callbacks – or the number of women asked to return to the hospital for additional testing. And, the 3D exam is similar to a conventional 2D mammogram.
“Compression time is just 3.7 seconds and it offers a low-dose radiation exposure,” Brackin said. “What makes the 3D option stand out is that we’ll now be able to have access to more detailed images resulting in better detection of breast cancers.”
“Our team is excited to bring this new technology to our community and offer advanced care to our patients,” said NMC-B Chief Executive Officer Patrick Kerrwood. “This latest addition to our imaging department is just one example of our commitment to offer the best health care to the people of Northwest Arkansas and our surrounding communities.”
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States and one of the leading causes of female cancer death. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime. Early detection is the most effective tool.
For women of average risk, the American College of Radiology recommends annual mammograms starting at age 40, with no upper age limit as long as the woman is in good health. Different guidelines apply to women at higher risk. For American College of Radiology recommendations, visit www.acr.org.
Three-dimensional mammography is not indicated for all patients. Ask your primary care provider if breast tomosynthesis is right for you. An order from a physician is not required for a screening mammogram, but the patient must provide a physician/provider name when an appointment is made. To request a mammography appointment, visit NorthwestMammo.com today.
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