Imaging Specialists Patients Requesting 3D Mammograms

CHARLESTON, S.C. - Oct. 5, 2015 - PRLog -- Imaging Specialists is the FIRST to offer 3D mammograms in the Mt. Pleasant area and patients are taking notice.  Many are requesting the 3D mammography when scheduling their annual screenings.  One of these patients is Jill Curb, a 44 year old mother of two boys.  She states, "I look for the most information I can get as early as I can get it.  It is important because I have 2 little boys."

The preparation for 3D is the same as 2D Mammography. With 3D mammography, the result is less need for recalls, fewer false-positives, fewer invasive testing procedures, and potentially earlier detection and treatment for breast cancer. Now the radiologist can see breast tissue detail in a way that was never before possible, in sharper, dime-thin images from numerous angles.  Almost all patients who need a screening or diagnostic mammogram can have 3D tomosynthesis mammography. For women with dense breast tissue, or who had prior biopsy or surgery, 3D mammography can help with the examination of the breast.  Recently moving from the West Coast, Curb was surprised that other facilities in the Charleston area were not offering 3D mammography to their patients.  She states, "Information is power. I think Imaging Specialists is being a leader.  A place like this eliminates the uncomfortable.  They make it comfortable and not stressful."

Breast tomosynthesis is used in conjunction with traditional digital mammography as part of the annual screening mammogram to capture more breast images. Very low X-ray energy is used during the screening examination so your radiation exposure is safely below the American College of Radiology (ACR) guidelines.  The equipment appears identical to a standard digital mammogram except that the tube head arcs over the breast during a 4-second exposure. The breast is compressed similar to or with slightly less pressure than a standard 2-D mammogram.   After the 3D breast tomosynthesis mammogram is obtained, a specially trained breast imaging radiologist physician who is onsite interprets the images. Rapid reports are provided at the time of the appointment. The report is sent to the patient's healthcare provider as well.

Imaging Specialists is the first and only facility in the Mt. Pleasant area to offer breast tomosynthesis.  Insurance coverage may vary. Patients are asked to please call their insurance carrier to determine their coverage. Self-pay rates are available and can be paid upon check in at the exam. At Imaging Specialists, self-pay rates are very affordable.  To schedule, patients are asked to obtain a mammogram prescription from their healthcare provider. As with any mammogram exam, it is important to have a breast physical exam and to discuss any new breast findings or problems with their healthcare provider. Also, it is important to inform the physician of breast history, including previous biopsies, surgeries and/or hormone use, as well as any family or personal history of breast or ovarian cancer.  As Curb states, "The question is why wouldn't you go? The more information you have, the better off you can be."

Call 881-4020 to schedule. Or, request an appointment online at www.ImagingSC.com. Results are rapid, so there is no waiting and worrying. Subspecialty trained radiologists are onsite to ensure a skilled read and a personalized experience.