3D mammography exams arrive at PCH

Putnam County Hospitalwill offer Genius 3D Mammography exams, developed by Hologic Inc., a worldwide leader in Women’s Health.

Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology, Genius 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.

In conventional 2D mammography, overlapping tissue is a leading reason why small breast cancers may be missed and normal tissue may appear abnormal, leading to unnecessary callbacks. A Genius exam includes a three-dimensional method of imaging that can greatly reduce the tissue overlap effect.

A Genius exam includes both 2D images and tomosynthesis scans. During the tomosynthesis-dimensional portion of the exam, an X-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple images. A computer then converts the images into a stack of thin layers, allowing the radiologist to review the breast tissue one layer at a time.

A Genius exam requires no additional compression and takes just a few seconds longer than a conventional 2D breast cancer screening exam.

The Hologic system is a clinically superior breast tomosynthesis system as approved by the FDA in 2013. The new system is recommended for women of all ages and breast densities. The system allows radiologists to more effectively pinpoint the size, shape and location of abnormalities. This leads to better detection and greater peace of mind for our patie

Large clinical studies in the U.S. and Europe have demonstrated the positive benefits of a Genius 3D Mammography exam. The largest study to date on breast cancer screening using the Genius exam was published in the June 25, 2014 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).

Findings include:

• A 41 percent increase in the detection of invasive breast cancers.

• A 29 percent in the detection of all breast cancers.

• A 15 percent in women recalled for additional imaging.

Putnam County Hospital is committed to the fight against breast cancer. In offering the Genius exam, Putnam County Hospital provides a more accurate tool for breast cancer screening.

“We are very excited to bring this advanced cutting edge technology that allows for earlier detection of breast cancer with fewer false positive findings, further improving the care available to Putnam County residents,” radiologist Joseph Hunt, M.D., said.

Persons who would like to schedule a Gennius 3D Mammography exam, or have questions about this important breast health procedure, may call Putnam County Hospital Central Scheduling at 658-2760.