Photo Caption: Tara Lamb, mammography technologist and breast care coordinator, is shown with the 3D mammography equipment at ThedaCare Medical Center-Wild Rose.
September 18th, 2018
THEDACARE MEDICAL CENTER-WILD ROSE
OFFERS 3D MAMMOGRAPHY
Multi-Layered Images Enhance Views, Interpretation
ThedaCare Medical Center-Wild Rose now offers 3-dimensional (3D) mammography technology. A screening and diagnostic tool designed for early breast cancer detection, 3D mammography is approved for women who have a standard mammogram. The new equipment, installed in Wild Rose in August, captures multiple images of the breast at different angles. The images are put together to create a clearer and more complete image, enabling a radiologist to review the assembly of images one thin segment at a time, almost like turning pages in a book.
“3D mammography is done with the same patient positioning as a standard mammogram,” said Tara Lamb, mammography technologist and breast care coordinator at ThedaCare Medical Center-Wild Rose. “We take the pictures at the same time as a woman’s regular mammogram and on the same equipment. The only noticeable difference for the patient is the tube head moves to capture multiple images at different angles.”
The 3D method makes it easier for doctors to see areas of concern and helps avoid false positives. Studies show a 40 percent reduction in follow-up imaging and up to a 65 percent improved detection rate for invasive cancers with 3D mammography compared with traditional mammography. “For some women, this means their cancer may be diagnosed earlier and they may have more treatment options,” said Lamb.
A woman can choose to add 3D imaging to her regular mammogram appointment based on her personal experience or the recommendation of her doctor. “It is particularly helpful to women with a personal or family history of breast cancer or other cancers,” said Lamb. “Or if she knows or has been told that she has dense breast tissue, the 3D method may offer clearer images.” Nearly 40 percent of women have dense breast tissue, and it is one of the biggest reasons that mammograms fail to detect existing breast cancer.
Together with the recent technology upgrade, the remodeled mammography department at ThedaCare Medical Center-Wild Rose also offers patients the option of aromatherapy and soft coverlets placed on the equipment’s plates to help make their mammogram experience more comfortable.
Most 3D mammography is covered by insurance, and patients are encouraged to confirm it is a covered expense. To schedule a mammogram at ThedaCare Medical Center-Wild Rose, please call ThedaCare Central Scheduling: 920-738-6521 option 1, or to ask questions about 3D mammography, call 920.622.5578.
About ThedaCare
For more than 100 years, ThedaCare® has been committed to finding a better way to deliver serious and complex healthcare to patients throughout Northeast and Central Wisconsin. The organization serves over 200,000 patients annually and employs more than 6,700 healthcare professionals throughout the region. ThedaCare has seven hospitals located in Appleton, Neenah, Berlin, Waupaca, Shawano, New London and Wild Rose as well as 31 clinics in nine counties. ThedaCare is the first in Wisconsin to be a Mayo Clinic Care Network Member, giving specialists the ability to consult with Mayo Clinic experts on a patient’s care. ThedaCare is a nonprofit healthcare organization with a level II trauma center, comprehensive cancer treatment, and stroke, orthopedic and cardiac programs, as well as a foundation dedicated to community service.
