The third Health Trust Gala is fast approaching (February 10) and the project chosen to be funded by the effort has been hailed as “The most exciting advancement in mammography in over 30 years.” Funds raised through the gala will be earmarked for the purchase of a Hologic 3D Mammography System.
Kristin Wilkinson, Imaging Department Director said, “We are very excited for the opportunity to bring 3D Mammography to our community. Mammograms can be more than just a quick check-up once a year to our patients; it can also be a highly emotional time for some women, particularly if they are called back for additional imaging, delaying the letter stating their mammogram was negative.” She said, “3D mammography provides a more detailed look at breast tissue by taking 10-15 images at varying angles, compared to the existing system which provides only one image. Simply put, 3D technology will give us the best opportunity to perform a mammogram that will result in a conclusive diagnosis with one exam, reducing our call backs and eliminating the anxiety those call backs cause.”
Madison County Health Care System CEO, Marcia Hendricks, BSN, MHCA, FACHE, said, “This is a wonderful investment in the services we provide. Modern technology continues to move forward at a rapid rate and we need to stay on top of it!” She added, “This new system will expand the diagnostic capabilities we presently offer.”
Winterset resident, and Cancer survivor, Linda Duff was short, and to the point, and said, “Mammograms save lives! I’m living proof!”
What’s the significance of 3D Mammography?
Hologic 3D Mammography significantly increases Cancer detection
- 41% increase in the detection of invasive breast Cancers.
- 29% increase in the detection of all breast cancers.
- 49% increase in the Positive Predictive Value (PPV) for a recall.
- 21% increase in the PPV for biopsy.
- 15% DECREASE in women recalled for additional screening.
Hologic 3D Mammography overcomes the challenge of overlapping breast tissue; a major limitation in traditional two dimensional mammography. In 2-dimensional imaging the X-ray tube remains stationary, whereas in 3-dimensional imaging the X-ray tube continuously sweeps in a 15-degree arc over the breast to acquire a series of low-dose projection images at multiple angles.
The faster scanning time means greater comfort and lowers the risk of patient motion; which reduces retakes. Similar to a CAT Scan, the X-Ray tube in its 3.7 second scan has taken images in “slices” which are mathematically reconstructed into what is essentially a 3D image of the breast.
Why the Genius 3D Mammography exam?
- Earlier detection: The Genius 3D Mammography exam is the only one that finds 41% more invasive cancers versus 2D mammography alone.
- More accuracy: It increases Positive Predictive Value (PPV) for both recalls and biopsy compared with 2D mammography.
- Clinical efficiency: It reduces recalls due to false positives; saving time and money.
Tickets for the gala are available at American State, Farmers and Merchants State, and Union State banks, and Montross Pharmacy in Winterset, or from any Board Member or at Madison County Memorial Hospital. The Saturday February 10, event will begin with social at 5:30 followed by a catered dinner at 6:30. Live and silent auction will be held and entertainment will be provided by Crosswind. The event will be held at the Jackson Building on the Madison County Fairgrounds. Tickets are $50.00 per person.