As technology advances, understanding medical exams and procedures becomes more complex. The quality of services provided is an important consideration.
The American Cancer Society endorses mammography, along with yearly physical examinations and monthly self-examinations, as the most effective means of detecting breast cancer at its earliest and most treatable stage. Generally, mammography can reveal benign and cancerous growths before you or your physician can feel them. If detected at the earliest stage, breast cancer has a five-year survival rate of over 95 percent, as small breast cancers are more treatable and can be removed before they spread to other parts of the body.
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in American women. Unfortunately, 70% of women have no identifying risk factors. The American Cancer Society recommends mammography as a life saving tool for screening women without symptoms for breast cancer. And 3D Mammography specifically is becoming the preferred choice for physicians in Southwest Florida.
What is 3D Mammography?
3D mammography is a revolutionary state of the art technology approved by the FDA in February 2011, which gives radiologists the ability to view inside the breast layer by layer, helping to see the fine details more clearly by minimizing overlapping tissue. During a 3D mammogram, multiple low-dose images known as “slices” of the breast are acquired at different angles. With 3D technology, the radiologist can view a mammogram in a way never before possible.
Is 3D a separate exam or part of my usual
mammogram?
The 3D exam is a separate procedure that is performed at the same time as your regular mammogram.
What is the cost and will my insurance cover
the 3D exam?
Medicare does cover 3D mammography. Even though 3D mammography is FDA approved and covered by Medicare, most private insurance companies are not yet reimbursing for this exam. However, the 2D portion of the exam is billed to your insurance as usual.
Patients choosing to have the additional 3D mammography imaging performed will be asked to pay $65 at check-in. This is an eligible expense through your flexible spending account or health savings account. We encourage all patients to submit their expense to their insurance provider.
What are the benefits?
FEWER MAMMOGRAM CALLBACKS for additional mammography – 3D mammography helps distinguish harmless abnormalities from real cancers, leading to fewer callbacks for additional mammography and less anxiety for women. With 3D mammography, RRC radiologists have reduced patient callback rates by 20-30 percent.
Doctors and scientists agree that early detection is the best defense against breast cancer. 3D mammography has been shown in clinical studies to be more accurate than conventional mammography alone by detecting cancers earlier. This new technology increases breast cancer detection by 38%. It’s truly an important component in the screening process.
How long will it take?
The exam will take about 4 seconds longer per view while in compression than the 2D mammography.
How much radiation will I be
exposed to?
It varies from person to person and is roughly equivalent to film/screen mammography. The amount of radiation is below government safety standards.
What if my doctor did not mention 3D Mammography to me?
3D is an optional service at this time and elected by the patient. Many physicians know about our new 3D technology and the feedback we have received has been very positive. If you need additional information to help you make this decision, please visit www.RadiologyRegional.com.
Why is RRC offering
3D Mammography?
RRC prides itself on offering the highest quality care for our patients. Our radiologists believe strongly that 3D mammography will benefit our patients.
How can I schedule an appointment for 3D Mammography?
Schedule your appointment by calling 239-936-4068.