Diet and Breast Cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, “A healthy diet can also help you get to and stay at a healthy weight. Overweight and obesity increase the risk for getting breast cancer. What’s less clear is the link between breast cancer risk and any one food type. Many studies about foods and breast cancer risk have had different results, but no … Read More

Your Frist Mammogram: What To Expect

Your First Mammogram: What To Expect

Going through something the first time is usually when it causes the most concern, worry and anxiousness, particularly as it applies to breast cancer screening. Although a mammogram can not prevent cancer, it can help to diagnose cancer when it is treatable. In today’s post, we share some information that will hopefully put you at ease about having your first … Read More

Breast Density

Breast Density Matters

Why Is It Important To Know Your Breast Density? In today’s post, we will discuss in Q&A format the importance of knowing your breast density. Q.  I had a mammogram recently and was told that I have dense breast tissue. What does that mean? A.  Breasts are made up of fat and non-fatty glandular and connective breast tissue. Some women … Read More

The power and superiority of Genius 3D mammography

Conventional 2D mammograms provide doctors with a 2D image to evaluate the breast. This can be limiting due to overlapping layers of tissue, which can sometimes produce unclear results, false alarms, or worse–cancer being missed. Genius exams deliver a series of detailed breast images, allowing your doctor to better evaluate your breasts layer by layer, and over 100 clinical studies … Read More

Osteoporosis Awareness: bone density scans detect low bone mass

May is National Osteoporosis Month. Osteoporosis is a major public health threat for an estimated 54 million Americans. Studies show that one in two women and up to one in four men over age 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis in their lifetime. Osteoporosis is a disease of the bone that makes a person’s bones weak and more … Read More

Three reasons why mammography is the best option

Mammography screening performed annually is the best option for women age 40 to 49, according to a review published online in the Journal of Breast Imaging. Annual screening is recommended for three main reasons, not least of which is a reduction in breast cancer mortality between 29% and 49%. Benefits will continue to improve While the article is highly clinical … Read More

An explanation of an exam that is very difficult to pronounce: HSG

A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an x-ray test that looks at the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes and the area around them. It often is done for women who are having a hard time becoming pregnant. During a hysterosalpingogram, a dye (contrast material) is put through a thin tube that is put through the vagina and into the uterus. … Read More

When a breast MRI is recommended

A question a woman may first ask when her physician recommends a breast MRI is “why?” It’s a perfectly natural, and encouraged question to ask as it is her body and her health. The exact role of Breast MRI in evaluation of possible breast cancer remains controversial and a subject of active research and refinement. In certain patients and in … Read More

The clear-cut choice for women and physicians when it comes to mammograms

Capitol Imaging Services has served tens of thousands of women with our women’s health examinations in screening mammography, diagnostic mammography, ultrasound, bone density studies, breast MRI and breast biopsy. We implemented 3D mammography several years ago to provide a mammogram technique that is considered superior to conventional 2D mammography in thoroughly evaluating breast tissue to identify any areas of concern. … Read More

Why take advantage of 3D mammography technology?

This spring marks approximately nine years since our Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services  (DIS), began performing 3D screening and diagnostic mammograms. We began with our Metairie – Veterans Memorial Boulevard Women’s Center and expanded to our Covington – Highway 21, Marrero and Slidell, LA locations. But, why should women take advantage of this technology? Some reasons are provided … Read More

Annual Mammogram

Annual Mammogram | Get Back on Track

Patients delaying their annual mammogram means thousands of cases of breast cancer are going undetected; resulting in higher mortality rates.

Stereotactic breast biopsy services added at Diagnostic Imaging Services

Our Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services (DIS) has added to their women’s health services portfolio by introducing stereotactic breast biopsy imaging studies to our suite of exams performed at their Women’s & Advanced Imaging Center in Metairie, LA. In order to provide these services, DIS invested in the Hologic Selenia Dimensions System 9000, which in addition to perform … Read More

Breast biopsy: what to know

If you find a lump or a change in your breast is seen on a mammogram, a biopsy may be needed to know what’s causing it. A biopsy is when a piece of tissue is taken out and tested in the lab. A biopsy is the only way to know if a suspicious breast change is cancer. The American Cancer Society … Read More

An explanation of 3D mammography in brochure form

Capitol Imaging Services provides a link to a brochure that does an excellent job of explaining the benefits of 3D mammography. The brochure is six pages in length, formatted to a size of 5-1/2″ x 8-1/2″. Click here to access the brochure. You need to have Adobe PDF Reader on your computer in order to view. Capitol Imaging Services offers … Read More

The cost effectiveness of 3D mammography

According to research published by Yale University, 3D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), has one more thing physicians and women should like about it: It’s cost-effective. Researchers say not only does it find more cancers than digital mammography alone, 3D mammography reduces the number of exams categorized as what’s known as “BI-RADS 3” or “probably benign,” which tend … Read More

You receive a call back after your screening mammogram: now what?

Diagnostic Imaging Services shares this article, courtesy of the American Cancer Society. Most of the time, women getting their routine mammogram will receive a letter within 30 days saying the results were normal. But if doctors find something suspicious, they’ll call you back – usually within just 5 days – to take new pictures or get other tests. Getting that … Read More

What is a mammogram standing order

This question is often asked of a woman contacting Capitol Imaging Services to arrange a visit for a screening mammogram. Most everyone understands that a referral order is needed in order to complete a screening mammogram or any imaging test performed by our organization. But, what is a standing order? Defining a standing order Simply, if a health care provider … Read More

FDA approves the only mammogram superior for women with dense breasts

Our Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services (DIS), the only independently-owned radiology practice of its type in the greater New Orleans area to offer Genius 3D mammography shares an announcement released by the Genius manufacturer, Hologic, Inc. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Genius 3D as superior to standard 2D mammography for routine breast cancer screening of women … Read More

Breast MRI: an important piece of the imaging puzzle

Capitol Imaging Services shares information about an advanced imaging exam we perform as part of our portfolio of women’s imaging services: breast MRI. MRI of the breast is not a replacement for mammography or ultrasound imaging but rather a supplemental tool that has many important uses, including: Screening in women at high risk for breast cancer. Determining the extent of … Read More

What does it mean when a woman is told she has dense breasts?

Dense breast tissue refers to the appearance of breast tissue on a mammogram. It’s a normal and common finding. Breast tissue is composed of milk glands, milk ducts and supportive tissue (dense breast tissue), and fatty tissue (nondense breast tissue). When viewed on a mammogram, women with dense breasts have more dense tissue than fatty tissue. Is 3D mammography better … Read More

Spreading the word about the benefits of 3D mammography

The signs you see to the right are new billboards that our Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services (DIS) had live during the month of October at different locations in the greater New Orleans area. This was something new for DIS. Many times, people will see billboards for hospitals and other medical practices. This is truly a test for … Read More

The difference between 2D and 3D mammography

Every year, hundreds of thousands of women in the United States are told by their medical provider that they have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Every year, breast cancer takes the lives of tens of thousands of women. When breast cancer is detected early – before it has spread – it is easier to treat. Women have a much better chance … Read More

Trying to put 3D mammography dose in understandable terms

One of the questions often posed by women and by medical providers regarding 3D mammography is about overall safety. Numerous reports, studies and research came out regarding what we call ionizing radiation, which is defined as radiation consisting of particles, x-rays, or gamma rays with sufficient energy to cause ionization in the medium through which it passes. While that may … Read More

Study: both breast cancer screening and treatment reduce mortality rate

According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the question that was trying to be answered was: Which route – breast cancer screening or breast cancer treatment, was the one that was most responsible for the remarkable decline in breast cancer mortality over several decades? The answer was somewhat surprising to the researchers. And yet, … Read More

Diagnostic Imaging Services earns ACR accreditation in Stereotactic Breast Biopsy

Our Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services (DIS), and their Women’s & Advanced Imaging Center in Metairie, LA has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in stereotactic breast biopsy as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). A breast biopsy is performed to remove tissue — either surgically or through a less … Read More

What is BI-RADS?

BI–RADS stands for Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System and was established by the American College of Radiology. BI-RADS is a system that was developed by radiologists for reporting mammogram results using a common language. The radiologist assigns a single digit BI-RADS score (ranging from 0 to 5) when the report of your mammogram is created. What does BI-RADS 0 … Read More

What is a hysterosalpingogram?

A hysterosalpingogram is an x-ray of the uterus and fallopian tubes which allows visualization of the inside of the uterus and tubes. The picture will reveal any abnormalities of the uterus as well as tubal problems such as blockage and dilation (hydrosalpinx). If sterilization reversal is planned, the point at which the tubes are blocked can be seen. This helps … Read More

What is breast cyst aspiration?

A breast cyst is a fluid-filled sac, like a tiny balloon, inside the breast. Breast cysts are common in women. They can cause a little pain, but they are usually benign (not cancer). In breast cyst aspiration, your doctor uses a small needle to make sure that the breast lump is a cyst, and to drain fluid from the cyst. … Read More

Study: 3D mammography finds smaller cancer than 2D mammography does

According to a presentation made at a radiology-centered medical convention, a study was presented that showed breast cancer screening utilizing 3D mammography, also known as breast tomosynthesis or digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), identifies smaller breast cancer when compared to 2D screening mammography. This finding indicates that this technology can improve health outcomes for women diagnosed with early breast cancer. Smaller … Read More

Research shows 3D mammography helps in accuracy of detecting breast cancer

In a healthcare journal article published in 2017,  more and more clinical evidence indicates that using 3D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), for breast cancer screening reduces recall rates and increases the detection of invasive cancers. Now another benefit of the technology is coming to the forefront: Adding DBT to digital mammography helps radiologists categorize lesions more accurately. … Read More

How to perform a self breast exam

Many times, women will ask our technologists at our various Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services, centers on the proper way to conduct a breast self-examination. While there are numerous pieces of literature available, as well as many online resources, here is a step-by-step guide we like to recommend. Of course, your doctor, nurse practitioner or other health care … Read More

Medicare and Managed Medicare health insurance now cover 3D mammography

Women with Medicare and Managed Medicare plans (i.e. Humana Gold, Choices 65, etc.) can choose the 3D mammography option for their screening without any additional fees. For nearly four years, these plans also cover 3D in addition to the traditional portion of their mammogram. 3D mammography is also known as breast tomosynthesis. There are several additional health insurance plan types … Read More

“You saved my life”

In the world of healthcare, lives depend upon the expertise of those in the profession. Doctors. Nurses. Support staff. All work together to provide what many consider to be the best medical care in the world. At Capitol Imaging Services, we live the passion of providing three things to every person that comes through our door for an exam: a … Read More

Additional research continues to tout the superiority of 3D mammography

In published articles within the radiology industry, a pair of studies were presented during a national radiologic convention that once again showed the improved performance of breast cancer screening and diagnosis when women were examined with 3D mammography. This continues the trend over the recent years of study after study showing the superiority of 3D mammography (also known as Digital … Read More

Women benefit from Affordable Care Act ban on mammography co-pays

In a study published in the Journal of Women’s Health, The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) elimination of co-pays for screening mammography in 2010 has had a positive benefit for commercially insured women across a variety of racial and income groups. According to the research team, racial disparities in screening mammography have narrowed, particularly among African American women. … Read More

Women: don’t forget your breast self-examination

According to many resources, most any private time is the perfect time for women to check their breasts for any changes in size, symmetry or color. We probably would not recommend it while frying bacon or a vegetable stir fry, but plenty of other times in the comfort of your home are opportunities to self-check. So, put that good novel … Read More

American Society of Breast Surgeons releases position statement on screening mammography

The American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) released a position statement that includes four main points for women and their medical providers to consider regarding screening mammogram guidelines and overall assessment for breast health. Below are the four points drawn up by the ASBrS: Women over the age of 25 should undergo an formal risk assessment for breast cancer. Women … Read More

Should women under the age of 40 get a baseline screening mammogram?

What is a baseline screening mammogram? The answer is simple. it’s a woman’s first mammogram. The question regarding age is often posed to medical providers and also the frequent subject of medical provider commentary or published studies and papers. The general consensus is that in general, regular mammograms are not recommended for women who are at average risk for breast … Read More

Breast cancer: symptoms and treatment

Capitol Imaging Services shares an informative three-minute presentation on the most common forms of cancer in women. In this video, an explanation of what cancer is and how it can develop in the breasts is provided. A description of different symptoms that are possible signs for breast cancer and the risk factors associated with this disease are also included. Capitol Imaging Services offers … Read More

Learn more about breast ultrasound

Capitol Imaging Services provides information about an exam commonly performed as part of our women’s imaging portfolio: breast ultrasound. Ultrasound is safe and painless, and produces pictures of the inside of the body using sound waves. During a breast ultrasound examination the sonographer performing the test may use Doppler techniques to evaluate blood flow or lack of flow in any … Read More

Why is bone density important to be measured?

We’ve all heard that bone density is crucial to good health. But at what age should you get tested for bone loss? And what’s the difference between osteopenia and osteoporosis, anyway? Osteoporosis and osteopenia, conditions of low bone mass leading to an increased risk of bone fracture, are extremely common in women, especially after menopause when bone loss is accelerated. Low … Read More

What is a mammogram standing order?

This question is often asked of a woman contacting Capitol Imaging Services (CIS) to arrange a visit for a screening mammogram. Most everyone understands that a referral order is needed in order to complete a screening mammogram or any imaging test performed by our organization. But, what is a standing order? Simply, if a health care provider such as a … Read More

What are three options offered for breast biopsy?

A Capitol Imaging Services network affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services (DIS), offers three different options for undergoing a breast biopsy. These options are best determined by a qualified medical provider and often a consultation with a women’s health radiologist. The three options are: Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy Stereotactic breast biopsy MRI-guided breast biopsy What are the biopsy differences? Image-guided biopsy is performed … Read More