February 1, 2018
McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital is now offering state-of-the-art 3D digital tomosynthesis mammography to patients in Oxford and the surrounding communities. The mammography unit that McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital acquired, the Selenia® Dimensions® system’s Genius™ 3D Mammography™ Unit.
“At this time, the best way to treat breast cancer is to detect it early, and the best method that we have for detection is annual mammography,” said Hillary Evans, M.D., a radiologist and member of the Board of Directors of McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital. “The point in the technology timeline at which we’re purchasing our 3D-mammography equipment is excellent. We’re getting state-of-the-art technology with the advantage of lower radiation, so it’s a win-win.”
Breast Tomosynthesis, often referred to as 3D Mammography, uses high-powered computing to convert digital breast images into a stack of very thin layers or “slices” – building what is essentially a “3-dimensional mammogram.” During the exam, the X-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple breast images in just seconds. Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology, 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.
The new technology enables radiologists to divide the breast into thinner sections that provides a clearer picture of the breast and significantly reduces false positives. Multiple studies in the U.S. and Europe have shown a 10 to 30 percent increase in cancer detection using 3D over 2D mammography, meaning more patients will get the correct diagnosis, likely resulting in more lives saved.
“We continue to bring state-of-the-art equipment to our facilities in Oxford,” said Brett Kirkpatrick, Executive Director at McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital. “This is another example of our commitment to providing state-of-the-art equipment to better meet the health care services of our community.”
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, exceeded only by lung cancer. Statistics indicate that one in eight women will develop breast cancer sometime in her lifetime. The stage at which breast cancer is detected influences a woman’s chance of survival.