New upgraded state-of-the-art 3D mammography machine at Veterans Memorial Hospital

State-of-the-art 3D mammography available at VMH ...
State-of-the-art 3D mammography available at VMH ... Veterans Memorial Hospital recently upgraded its current 3D mammography machine with a new state-of-the-art machine, making it the most up-to-date machine available in the tri-state region. It features an all-new, comfort-focused paddle that is curved to conform to the shape of the patient’s breast and has rounded corners for the most comfortable compression possible. Pictured above, left to right, with this new 3D mammography machine are Veterans Memorial Hospital Radiological Technicians Amanda Leiran, Supervisor; Keisha Coon and Danielle Ferring. Appointments are now being taken for this new system. Submitted photo.

Veterans Memorial Hospital (VMH) recently upgraded its current 3D mammography machine with a new state-of-the-art machine, making it the most updated machine available in the tri-state region. It features an all-new, comfort-focused paddle that is curved to conform to the shape of the patient’s breast and has rounded corners for the most comfortable compression possible.

“Our old 3D mammo machine was in need of replacement and we are happy to have this upgraded 3D machine,” states Amanda Leiran, Radiology Supervisor at Veterans Memorial Hospital. “The majority of patients that have experienced this new machine have agreed that there is a noticeable difference compared to previous exams, making the experience much more pleasant.”

This new 3Dimensions system is designed to provide higher quality 3D images for radiologists, a more comfortable mammography experience for patients and enhanced workflow for technologists. Sharper images and smarter technologies produced by this machine continue to help find invasive cancers regardless of age or breast density.

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. This 3D exam includes a three-dimensional method of imaging that can greatly reduce the tissue overlap effect for better accuracy.

“The 3D mammograms are sort of similar to a CT scan. Instead of a general overview of the entire breast, this machine gives us slices so the Radiologist can actually scroll through the breast slice by slice. This helps cut down on how many patients get called back in for extra images since it reduces the appearance of overlapping tissue,” states Renee Stokman, mammographer at Veterans Memorial Hospital. “We are fully committed to the fight against breast cancer and are proud to be able to offer this amazing service to our community!”

Benefits of 3D Digital Mammography include:
• A 41% increase in the detection of invasive breast cancers.
• A 29% increase in the detection of all breast cancers.
• A 15% decrease in women recalled for additional imaging.

As long as patients are not experiencing any breast issues, they do not need an order from their provider to schedule a yearly mammogram. To schedule a 3D Mammography exam, feel free to contact the X-ray department at Veterans Memorial Hospital at 563-568-3411.