The results of a large, retrospectives study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) show that 3D mammography— also called tomosynt h e s is—finds significantly more invasive cancers and
reduces unnecessary recalls. Memorial Healthcare System was one of 13 sites nationwide to participate in the study.
“This study confirms what we already know – 3D mammography finds more of the invasive, harmful cancers we want to find and, at the same time, saves women the anxiety and expense of having additional tests for what often turn out to be false alarms,” explained Dr. Mary Hayes, director of Women’s Imaging, Memorial Healthcare System. “We were proud to participate in such an important study.”
The study focused on the impact of 3D mammography on nearly a half of a million women throughout a diverse range of sites across the United States. It was led by Dr. Sarah Friedenwald at Advocate Lutheran Hospital in Park Ridge, Illinois. Key findings included a 41% increase in invasive cancer detected with 3D mammography and a 15% decrease in unnecessary recalls for false alarms.
In 2008, Memorial Healthcare System became the first facility to use tomosynthesis mammography in the state of Florida. In addition, MHS was one of eight nationwide hospitals that participated in the research that lead to FDA approval in 2011. Currently, 3D tomosynthesis mammography is offered at their four Women’s Imaging Centers: Memorial Regional Hospital, Memorial Regional Hospital South, Memorial Hospital West and Memorial Hospital Miramar.
“Women experience little difference between a conventional 2D mammogram and 3D imaging,” said Dr. Hayes. “The exam takes just a few seconds longer and the positioning is the same. The real difference is in the information available to the doctor.”
She emphasized, “It’s as if 2D mammography is the cover of a book and 3D provides the images to tell the complete story.”
Advances in the understanding of the role of genetics, family history and other exposures have altered the approach to breast imaging. At the Women’s Imaging Centers at Memorial Healthcare System, breast imaging exams are tailored to each individual. Each patient is assessed with a personal risk profile, developed by the National Cancer Institute, to best meet patients’ breast imaging and breast health needs.
All MHS technologists are experienced, registered and licensed. All breast imaging exams are read and interpreted by experienced board-certified, fellowship-trained radiologists who specialize in breast imaging. If necessary, patients can also count on Memorial’s multidisciplinary team of boardcertified physicians who specialize in breast surgery, breast pathology and breast oncology.
For more information, visit mhs.net.
