SMC adds 3D Mammography
Shenandoah Medical Center is excited to announce the addition of 3D mammography services now available in Shenandoah. The newly installed 3D mammography unit at Shenandoah Medical Center helps provide patients with access to enhanced breast imaging services closer to home. The purchase of this unit was largely made possible through grant funding from the Cy & Carolyn Rapp Trust, the Kay M. Anderson Foundation, and the USDA Rural Development Program.
The breast is a three-dimensional object composed of different structures located at different heights within the breast. These structures can overlap and cause confusion when viewed as a flat two-dimensional image. This is a leading reason why small breast cancers may be missed and normal tissue may appear abnormal, leading to unnecessary callbacks. A 3D exam uses breast tomosynthesis technology to create a three-dimensional image of the breast structure, which enables radiologists to more clearly see through overlapping tissue to detect cancers, often at an earlier stage. Additionally, this 3D mammography unit enables physicians to obtain diagnostic samples using less invasive procedures.
Shenandoah Medical Center’s Chief Executive Officer, Matt Sells, explains that the imaging technology now used at Shenandoah Medical Center is cutting-edge for our geographic area.
“This state-of-the-art imaging tool provides our Radiologic Technologists with enhanced capability to identify breast cancer while reducing the need for additional testing. Breakthroughs in 3D technology now available on the market allow SMC patients to receive a decreased radiation dose from units initially introduced by mammography vendors. We are thrilled to continue enhancing the availability of advanced imaging technology at Shenandoah Medical Center.”
Similar to 2D mammography, 3D mammography exams are conducted in a private screening room, where a mammography unit uses x-ray technology to obtain multiple images. The entire screening process only takes between 10 and 20 minutes. After a mammogram is complete, a radiologist interprets images and communicates any findings to a patient’s primary care provider for additional follow-up as needed.
The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and private insurance companies provide coverage for 3D screening mammography services for beneficiaries under their plans. Individuals can schedule their screening mammogram by contacting Shenandoah Medical Center’s scheduling office at (712) 246-7400.
