The most common type of cancer among women in the United States is breast cancer. Early detection of breast cancer allows for more successful treatment. We help fight breast cancer by offering a variety of imaging services to support the mission of early detection.
1. Mammography
Mammography is the most advanced technology available for early detection. Annual screening mammography is recommended for women starting at age 40. It is an x-ray of the inner structure of the breast while under compression. The breast must be compressed to obtain uniformity. While good compression of the breast can be uncomfortable, it is important because it minimizes radiation exposure and allows visualization of abnormalities which might otherwise be obscured behind normal breast tissue.
2. Breast Tomosythesis/3D Mammography
Breast Tomosythesis/3D Mammography is beneficial for all women and for all breast densities. Overlapping breast tissue on a mammogram can obscure or mimic suspicious findings. 3D Mammography is an advanced mammogram and works by capturing multiple images from several angles. Our radiologists are then able to examine your breast tissue, one thin section at a time, so fine details are more visible. 3D mammography complements standard 2D mammography and is performed at the same time.
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3. Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS)
Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS) is an adjunct to your screening mammogram and aids in finding hard-to-see cancers in dense breasts. Some cancers that could hide on a mammogram show up clearly on an ABUS screening. ABUS can find approximately one-third more cancers than mammography alone if you have dense breasts.
4. Breast Ultrasound
When an abnormality is found on a mammogram or is discovered by physical examination of the breast, it is very important to determine whether the abnormality is cystic (fluid filled) or solid. Mammography alone is unable to tell the difference between a cyst and a solid mass. Breast ultrasound is a simple and painless method which is used to distinguish whether an abnormality is cystic or solid. It does not, however, replace a mammogram.
5. Breast MRI
One of the newest tools for breast cancer diagnosis and management is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Breast MRI is performed as a complement to mammography and ultrasound when a physician needs more information than other imaging studies can provide. It is a particularly powerful tool for screening women in certain high-risk categories.
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