3D Mammography or Breast Tomosynthesis provides our onsite Board Certified Penn Medicine Radiologists with more accurate views of the breast from multiple angles, which is especially important for women with dense breast tissue. The result is increased accuracy, greater peace of mind, and a 15% reduction in false-positives and the necessity for return visits. In large, prospective multi-institutional trials, 3D mammography was also proven to improve cancer detection rates by 41%.
It is important to emphasize that should any breast abnormalities be detected, all follow-up testing can be performed at this same location. Our comprehensive Women's Imaging Center offers ultrasound, breast MRI, bone density testing, and minimally invasive image-guided breast biopsies, including stereotactic, ultrasound-guided and MRI-guided biopsy. Our breast health nurse navigator provides support and can address any question or concern that you may have. She also works closely with the Penn Women's Specialty Center, also located in the Fern Hill Medical Campus, to coordinate further testing and to assist you with scheduling an appointment with one of our breast surgeons should it be required.
Highlights + Features:
- More detailed images from many angles
- 15% reduction in false-positives
- 41% improved cancer detection rates
- Better visualization of dense breast tissue
- Images are read onsite by Board Certified Penn Radiologists
- All follow-up testing done in the same location
- Breast Navigator and Women's Specialty Center located in the same building to help facilitate care
- NO ADDITIONAL COST TO PATIENTS!
About Mammography
Mammography plays a central role in the early detection of breast cancers because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them. Current guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the American Cancer Society (ACS), the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend that women undergo a screening mammogram every year beginning at age 40. Research has shown that annual mammograms lead to early detection of breast cancers, when they are most curable and breast-conservation therapies are available.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) also recommends that women who have had breast cancer and those who are at increased risk due to a genetic history of breast cancer seek expert medical advice about whether they should begin screening before age 40 and about the frequency of screening.
Screening vs. Diagnostic Mammograms
Digital Mammography Screening mammograms are used as a tool to detect early breast cancer in women experiencing no symptoms. It involves two X-rays of each breast. Diagnostic mammography is used to evaluate a patient with clinical findings such as a lump. It is also done after an abnormal screening mammogram to evaluate an area of concern. A diagnostic mammogram involves more X-rays than a screening mammogram. Following a diagnostic mammogram the results will be discussed with you at your appointment.
Urgent Appointments
If you discover a lump, you can request an Accelerated Diagnostic Breast Evaluation within 24 hours of receiving a written prescription from your primary care physician or gynecologist. The prescription is necessary for an urgent diagnostic mammogram.
Exam Preparations for Outpatients over the Age of 16
- Avoid caffeine prior to the exam.
- Do not use deodorant or powder prior to the exam.
- Let the scheduler know if you have breast implants when you make your appointment.
- Wear a two-piece outfit on the day of your exam so you only have to remove your top and bra.
- Exams are best performed during the first week of your menstrual cycle unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
- If you have had a previous mammogram at another facility other than a Chester County Hospital Radiology location, please bring these previous films with you.
We are proud to be recognized as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology and we are accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers administered by the American College of Surgeons.
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