3D Mammography Technology Now Available in Livingston

Committed to the fight against breast cancer, St. Luke’s Health-Memorial Livingston is now scheduling women for 3D mammogram exams – a first for the Polk County area. Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis – or 3D – technology, Hologic Genius™ 3D 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.

“We know getting your yearly mammogram isn’t all that enjoyable, but it is necessary. Breast cancer is one of the top four deadliest forms of cancer nationwide, but we also know that it can be prevented with regular screening,” Richard Perches, M.D., Medical Director of Radiology in Livingston. “Using the most advanced 3D technology available, we hope to increase the number of women who catch their cancer in the earliest stages so we can give them the best chances for conquering this dreaded disease.” 

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 3D mammography exam includes a three-dimensional method of imaging that can greatly reduce the tissue overlap effect.

During the 3D 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 3D mammography exam requires no additional compression and takes just a few seconds longer than a conventional 2D breast cancer screening exam.

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 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.

“The new system is recommended for women of all ages and breast densities, as it allows our radiologists to more effectively pinpoint the size, shape and location of abnormalities,” said Kristi Froese, Vice President of Clinical Operations in Livingston. “This leads to better detection and greater peace of mind for our patients.”

The mammography center at St. Luke’s Health-Memorial Livingston has its own private waiting room and the technicians are all female. It’s a very thoughtful process so patients never feel exposed or uncomfortable.

A new law, which goes into effect on September 1, mandates that all commercial insurance providers in Texas cover 3D mammograms. If you can’t afford a mammogram, please contact the Women’s Special Services department at St. Luke’s Health-Memorial at 936-639-7066 for a 2-minute screening for eligibility or to schedule an appointment.

Join us as we unveil our new 3D Mammography technology on Thursday, August 31 from 4 to 6 p.m., located in the Imaging Center at St. Luke’s Health. If you would like to schedule a 3D mammography exam, or have questions about this important breast health procedure, please contact St. Luke’s Health-Memorial Livingston at 936-329-8700.