Photo Caption: Cindy Hartzke and Brittany Meulemans, mammography technologists at ThedaCare Medical Center-Berlin, look forward to offering new 3D mammograms to women in Berlin in September.
September 21st, 2018
THEDACARE MEDICAL CENTER-BERLIN
OFFERS 3D MAMMOGRAPHY
Multi-Layered Images Enhance Views, Interpretation
OFFERS 3D MAMMOGRAPHY
Multi-Layered Images Enhance Views, Interpretation
The staff at ThedaCare Medical Center-Berlin now offers 3-dimensional (3D) mammography technology at the hospital. A screening and diagnostic tool designed for early breast cancer detection, 3D mammography is approved for women who have a standard mammogram. The new method 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 complements standard two-dimensional mammography,” said Dawn Henriksen, the supervisor of imaging services at ThedaCare Medical Center-Berlin. “We take the pictures at the same time as a woman’s regular mammogram and on the same equipment.” The 3D method makes it easier for doctors to see if there are 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 Henriksen.
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 Henriksen. “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 technology upgrade, the mammography department at ThedaCare Medical Center-Berlin will be remodeled with new flooring and fresh paint colors, Henriksen said.
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-Berlin or ask questions about 3D mammography, please call 920.361.5554 or 920.361.5553.
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.
