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.
More accurate lesion categorization is obviously better for the patient in reducing stress and anxiety that often occurs when they are called back for additional imaging. Financial costs are reduced as call back imaging is not covered by the current Affordable Care Act and are subject to any health care insurance deductible, copay or coinsurance obligation that is the patient’s responsibility to pay.
The article classifies it as “better 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.
3D mammography/DBT reduced the percentage of women in the research study asked to return for additional exams. Fewer additional exams. Unnecessary biopsies. Lower costs.
In choosing 3D mammography, women put themselves in a position where they choose technology that reduces false negatives and increases true positives. By decreasing the false positive rate, the number of call backs is reduced.
All of these are good for the patients and the health care provider.
3D mammography is performed at our Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services (DIS). The DIS Covington – Highway 21, Marrero, Metairie – Veterans Memorial Boulevard and Slidell center in Louisiana offer the power and superiority of 3D technology.
Click here to learn more about the benefits of this advanced technology in breast cancer screening.
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