Where Can I Find 3D Mammography on Long Island?
Nearly 40,000 mammograms are performed in the U.S. every year. As advancements in computer technology take hold across all aspects of our lives, new 3d mammography technology is improving the accuracy of breast cancer screenings for women.
What Is 3D Mammography?
3d mammography, also called tomosynthesis, is a new FDA-approved breast cancer screening tool that’s improving the early detection rates of cancer. In use since 2011, the technology allows multiple x-ray images of breast issue to be recorded in a single scan, which gives physicians a crystal clear image of healthy breast tissue and any abnormalities.
Unlike traditional mammography that only takes a single picture, 3d mammography takes many images from different angles. This allows physicians to view the images in a series of thin slices or use dynamic interactive animation to more easily pinpoint abnormalities. A good example is to imagine a traditional mammogram as taking a picture of a book cover, while multiples images recorded in a 3d mammogram allows doctors to flip through that same book one page at a time.
One of the main benefits of 3d technology is that fewer false positive results are recorded, and radiologists can more easily determine which abnormalities are medically significant. Studies have shown a 10 to 30 percent increase in the overall detection of breast cancer since 3d mammograms became available. This increased accuracy saves women from needless anxiety of false positives and added cost for unnecessary follow-up tests.
How Does It Differ from Traditional Mammography?
Although you won’t notice any differences from a traditional mammogram during your exam, 3d mammography records many images in just seconds, as an x-ray arm sweeps over the breast in an arc-like motion. It only takes about four seconds to record a 3d image, which is slightly longer than with a traditional mammogram. Traditional and 3d mammograms emit the same amount of radiation, so there is no increased risk of radiation exposure. 3d mammograms are also safe for women with breast implants.
Since 3d mammography records many more images than a 2d mammogram, your radiologist may take longer to interpret the results and forward them to your primary physician.
Who Should Get a 3D Mammogram?
Any woman who is considering getting a mammogram is a good candidate for 3d mammography. If you have dense breast tissue, 3d mammograms are especially helpful in providing a clearer picture of the breast. It helps doctors find cancerous masses earlier and helps pinpoint the size of the mass, which is more difficult with a traditional mammogram.
Just like traditional mammograms, it is recommended that women over 40 receive a 3d mammogram every year for optimal health benefits. They don’t require special referrals and most insurance plans cover the procedure.
Where Can I Get 3D Mammography on Long Island?
At PURE Mammography, we offer our patients a relaxing, comfortable spa-like experience at our location inside the Smith Haven Mall on Long Island. A leader in spa design and management designed our facility, so your comfort is our top priority. No appointment is necessary, so stop in after shopping and get your yearly mammogram in about the same amount of time you’d spend browsing in the store next door.
Our patients are given warm fluffy robes, a hot beverage, and a selection of snacks while waiting for their exam. Once inside the exam room, we use digital surround sound and state-of-the-art video to transport you to an exotic locale like a rainforest, beach or garden to make your exam as relaxing as possible. A relaxed patient has less anxiety during testing, which results in more accurate testing.
If it’s time for your yearly 3d mammogram, stop by PURE Mammography today. We offer flexible hours to fit your busy schedule. If you’d rather make an appointment, call us at 631-652-3424 or visit our website to schedule an appointment online.