3D Mammograms take screening to the next level

If you are nearing your 40s, you may have heard about the importance of scheduling regular mammograms to screen for breast cancer.

Most women should start these screenings at age 40, and women with a family history or other risk factors for breast cancer may need to start them earlier. Even if you know you need one, you might be wondering what a mammogram is and how it can help you.

The mammograms we encourage women to get each year are screening mammograms. During these exams, a mammographer takes X-ray images of each breast to look for abnormalities and other signs that you may have breast cancer or another breast condition.

After the mammogram, the radiologist reviews the images and looks for noticeable changes in your breasts from your previous screening (if you’ve had one before) and abnormal tissue that might need further investigation.

If something unusual appears, the radiologist will use a standing order (written protocols that authorize designated members of the health care team to complete certain clinical tasks without having to first obtain a physician order) or call the referring physician for an order to perform a diagnostic mammogram. These mammograms involve X-ray images, just like a screening mammogram, but the mammographer takes more images, so the exams typically last longer.

For many years, mammography X-rays were 2D images. Beaufort Memorial began using 3D technology, also known as tomosynthesis, more than 10 years ago and in early 2023 began using the 3D technology as the standard of care for all patients receiving screening mammograms.

The improved image quality of 3D breast imaging offers several advantages over traditional 2D scans. Radiologists are able to see breast tissue in greater detail, which reduces the likelihood of being called back for additional testing.

The technology has also been shown to increase breast cancer detection rates by about 40 percent, identifying cancers earlier, often before symptoms appear. In addition, 3D screening results in about 15 percent fewer false positives, helping patients avoid unnecessary stress and follow-up procedures.

Many insurance providers now cover 3D mammography for screening mammograms, but if you aren’t sure, call your provider.

Beaufort Memorial offers screening mammograms for $99 in October

A screening mammogram is one of the best tools out there for the early detection of breast cancer, and in October, Beaufort Memorial is partnering with MDSave to offer $99 3D mammograms at three locations in the Lowcountry.

Appointments are available in Beaufort, Okatie and on Hilton Head Island, and can be purchased online at BeaufortMemorial.org/SaveOnMammos. Patients who purchase the $99 mammogram voucher by the end of October will be able to schedule their screening appointments anytime within six months of purchase.

This pricing is available through MDSave, an online healthcare marketplace designed for patients without health insurance or high deductible health plans.

Patients interested in taking advantage of the $99 offer should:

• Visit BeaufortMemorial.org/SaveOnMammos and select a preferred location now through Oct. 31.
• Pay in advance by the end of the month with a credit card, FSA, HSA or PayPal and receive a voucher, which can be used up to six months from the time of purchase.
• Call (843) 522-5015 or visit BeaufortMemorial.org/MammoAppointment to schedule a screening mammogram.
• Present the voucher at the time of your appointment.

Dr. Evan J. Wolff is a board-certified radiologist who is fellowship-trained in breast radiology, who sees patients at Beaufort Memorial.