The Center for Breast Health at Good Samaritan Hospital Introduces 3D Mammography

Doctors say 3D mammography exams are proven to increase invasive cancer detection and reduce recall rates

SUFFERN — The Center for Breast Health at Good Samaritan Hospital is now offering “Genius 3D Mammography” exams. Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology, 3D exams are proven to significantly increase the detection of breast cancers, while simultaneously decreasing thenumber of women asked to return for additional testing.

“The system allows our radiologists to more effectively pinpoint the size, shape and location of abnormalities,” said Robert Yates, system director, Imaging Services.

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

The new system is recommended for women of all ages and breast densities, Good Sam doctors said.

“If your insurance covers it, or if you are otherwise able to afford it, I would recommend getting a 3D mammogram, especially if you have dense breast tissue,” said Karen Karsif, M.D., medical director of The Center for Breast Health at Good Samaritan Hospital.

Large clinical studies in the U.S. and Europe have demonstrated the positive benefits of 3D mammography exams. 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:

• A41 percent increase in the detection of invasive breast cancers.
• A29 percent increase in the detection of all breast cancers.
• A15 percent decrease in women recalled for additional imaging.

“We are committed to the fight against breast cancer,” said Steven Reichard, D.O., a radiologist and director of women’s imaging. “In offering 3D mammograms, we can provide a more accurate tool for breast cancer screening and therefore the best possible care for our patients.”

To schedule a 3D mammography, or if you have questions about this breast health procedure, please call 1-866-596-8456.