Munson Medical Center’s Smith Family Breast Health Center recently implemented three-dimensional tomography as another tool to more accurately determine breast health in certain patients.
The hospital’s Medical Director for Breast Imaging Charles Weitz, M.D., said the center’s General Electric Pristina 3D unit offers the latest three-dimensional tomosynthesis mammography to aid in detection and diagnosis of breast disease.
“3D mammography will benefit patients by increasing detection of small breast cancers by as much as 20 to 30 percent,” he said. “It also will reduce call backs from screening mammograms by as much as 30 to 40 percent.”
Most patients will continue to have two-dimensional screening using digital mammography. Patients need a specific 3D mammography order from their provider to obtain the three-dimensional test. Those designated as high-risk or with other specific breast conditions are eligible for the test. Not all insurances currently cover the technology.
The Food and Drug Administration first approved three-dimensional tomosynthesis for breast cancer screenings in 2011.
Women who choose to have their mammography at Smith Family Breast Health Center will find a beautiful facility and expert staff. All mammography technologists have been certified in 3D and 2D digital mammography to ensure the comfort of the patient and quality of the testing.
The facility is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Health Centers, part of the American College of Surgeons, and has been designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology since 2010.
Smith Family Breast Health Center is located in the Copper Ridge Development in Traverse City at 4100 Park Forest Drive. For more information, call 231-392-7100.