Breast health

• 2D and 3D mammography (for both screening and diagnostic purposes)
• 3D artificial intelligence (AI) computer-aided detection (CAD)
• Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Breast reconstruction
• Breast surgery
• Breast ultrasound
• Contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (first in the region to offer this)
• Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) for bone density testing
• Minimally invasive breast biopsy
  • 3D stereotactic breast biopsy
  • MRI-guided breast biopsy
  • Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy
• Needle localization procedure for surgical biopsy
• Patient-controlled compression (first in Manatee County, Florida, to offer this)
• Sentinel node injection
• Wire-free breast localization system

Some women, such as those who have dense breast tissue or certain genetic risk factors, may need additional screening techniques, including breast ultrasound.

A breast ultrasound procedure studies a specific area that has been identified on a mammogram or a lump that has been identified through a breast self-exam. This imaging exam can determine the difference between a cystic or solid mass in the breast.

Breast ultrasounds are used in combination with mammography. (Ultrasounds can have a limited scope, so they are not a replacement for a mammogram.)

A 3D mammogram is an imaging test that takes multiple, detailed breast X-rays to create a 3D image of the breast. The 3D image shows fine details in the breast and allows physicians to look for breast cancers and other breast issues.

Benefits of 3D mammograms

3D mammograms offer many benefits, including:

• Beneficial for women with dense breast tissue
• Can detect more breast cancers when compared to standard mammograms
• May reduce the need for "call back" imaging because of the fine details in the 3D image
• Uses comfort pads and a curved breast stabilization program, which reduces discomfort from breast compression used during the mammogram

How a 3D mammogram works

A 3D mammogram is very similar to the conventional mammogram. The process is as follows:

• During the mammogram, a female imaging technologist will position your breasts on the imaging equipment. To get a high-quality picture, the breast must be compressed. The mammogram compresses the breast for a few seconds while an image is taken.
• The entire procedure takes about 15 minutes. The breast compression only lasts a few seconds. You may feel some discomfort when your breasts are compressed. A memory foam pad is used to help reduce this discomfort.
• You and the technologist are the only ones in the room during the mammogram.

3D mammography and insurance coverage

Contact your insurance provider to confirm if this mammogram is covered by your insurance. If you are due for your annual screening, most 3D mammograms are covered with a physician's order.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your mammogram appointment:

• Wear a two-piece outfit.
• Do not apply deodorant, powder or lotion on or around the breast or underarm areas.
• Schedule the test for one week after your period. Your breasts are less sensitive then.
• If your last mammogram was performed at another facility, ask that facility to send the images to us. This helps the radiologist compare the two sets of images for any changes.
• If you have insurance, bring your card with you. You may also pay with cash, check or credit card.
• A physician's order is required if you are receiving a diagnostic mammogram. (This is usually ordered if you have lumps or are experiencing pain and/or discharge.)

Have you been screened for future cancer risk? We offer a cancer screening program to identify patients with an elevated risk for cancer due to factors like family history of cancer, breast density and genetics. Through a short questionnaire, individuals at a higher risk for cancer can be identified and receive recommendations for further testing based on their risk factors.

If you are at increased risk for cancer, we offer genetic testing to people who might have inherited a pathogenic gene variant, increasing their risk for developing breast, ovarian and other cancers. The test helps determine your risk for hereditary forms of cancer and provides guidance for earlier screening, risk-reducing practices and preventive options. Understanding your risk of hereditary forms of cancer can help you make better decisions about your ongoing healthcare.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about this service, call (941) 798-6201.