Why Have a Breast MRI?

Guidelines from the American Cancer Society do include screening MRI with mammography for certain high-risk women. This option should be considered for the following: Women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation (BRCA1 is a gene, which, when altered, indicates an inherited susceptibility to cancer. BRCA2 is a gene, which, when altered, indicates an inherited susceptibility to breast and/or ovarian cancer.) Women … 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

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

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

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

Diagnostic Imaging Services added breast biopsy to women’s imaging portfolio

Our Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services (DIS), a leader in southeast Louisiana’s women’s health imaging, is pleased to announce that MRI breast biopsy has been added to our stable of women’s health exams. MRI breast biopsy studies performed at Diagnostic Imaging Services will be done on our 1.2T open MRI scanner. A breast biopsy is performed to remove … Read More

Singer-songwriter promotes mammography technology found at Capitol Imaging Services

Our Capitol Imaging Services affiliate, Diagnostic Imaging Services (DIS) is the only independent radiology practice in the greater New Orleans area to offer women the superiority of 3D mammography. DIS began in 2013 with their first 3D installation in Metairie, LA. Then, 3D mammography was expanded to centers in Covington, Marrero and Slidell, LA. Entertainer Sheryl Crow has partnered with Hologic, … 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

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

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

“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

Diagnostic Imaging Services joins You Night Empowering Events

Diagnostic Imaging Services is proud to be participating in upcoming July and October events held by You Night Empowering Events. There are over 16 million cancer survivors in the United States. In New Orleans, it is estimated that this year alone – over 24,000 new cases will be diagnosed. The good news about cancer care is that thanks to advances … 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

Entertainer and breast cancer survivor urges mammograms

Fourteen years ago, a singer/songwriter/entertainer was diagnosed with breast cancer. Fortunately for this performer, Sheryl Crow, it was detected early at stage one — according to Crow all thanks were given to her annual mammogram — and she has made a complete recovery. Recently, People magazine published an article stating that Crow is “concerned” about the decline in breast cancer … 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

Scientists solve a 30-year breast cancer puzzle

In a new study published in Cell Reports, scientists at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center demonstrate that mice lacking one copy of a gene called CTCF have abnormal DNA methylation and are markedly predisposed to cancer. CTCF is a very well-studied DNA binding protein that exerts a major influence on the architecture of the human genome, but had not been previously … Read More

What is ultrasound-guided breast biopsy?

Lumps or abnormalities in the breast are often detected by physical examination, mammography, or other imaging studies. However, it is not always possible to tell from these imaging tests whether a growth is benign or cancerous. A breast biopsy is performed to remove some cells—either surgically or through a less invasive procedure involving a hollow needle—from a suspicious area in the breast … Read More

Study: 3D mammography increases cancer detection

A groundbreaking study was published that found 3D mammography, also known as breast tomosynthesis, significantly increased cancer detection while simultaneously reducing the number of false positives. According to the study’s results, 3D mammography finds significantly more invasive or lethal cancers than a traditional mammogram. It also reduces the number of women called back for unnecessary screenings due to false alarms. … Read More

DIS women’s imaging: quality of care in an efficient environment

As the largest independently-owned outpatient imaging organization in Lousiana, DIS provides a short overview of the depth and breadth of our women’s health imaging portfolio. While one local health system once touted that they performed over 2,500 mammograms in one year, DIS often performs that many IN ONE MONTH! From mammography to tomosynthesis to breast biopsy, no other outpatient provider … Read More

Hear their stories. Share yours.

Diagnostic Imaging Services shares a powerful message courtesy of the Estee Lauder Companies. We recommend having a tissue or handkerchief nearby. The dialogue is emotional and compelling.

What does not cause breast cancer

Over the years, many factors have been studied to see whether or not they increase the risk of breast cancer. Some of these factors have been proven to be unrelated to breast cancer and do not increase (or in some cases, decrease) risk. A full list of these factors is too long to present here. Some, however, deserve mention here … Read More

DIS “strides” in November to support the fight against breast cancer

Diagnostic Imaging Services was proud to join the thousands of men and women who braved cold, windy temperatures on Saturday, November 1 for the 2014 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in New Orleans. Originating and finishing in Champions Square, thousands gathered tohonor survivors, walk in memory of those no longer with us and to continue the fight to work … Read More

Tomosynthesis classifies breast lesions more accurately

In a recent national conference held in Chicago, IL for radiology and medical professionals, research presented concluded that adding digital breast tomosynthesis, also known as 3D mammography, to digital mammography for screening appears to have many benefits, including greater sensitivity in dense breast tissue and fewer recalls. But the technology also classifies non-calcified breast lesions more accurately in the diagnostic … Read More

Pfizer’s breast cancer drug approved two months early by FDA

Diagnostic Imaging Services shares a news story regarding early approval by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for promising breast cancer drug. Pfizer Inc.’s drug Ibrance was approved for advanced breast cancer by U.S. regulators more than two months ahead of schedule, letting the drugmaker proceed with one of its most promising new blockbusters. Pfizer estimated Ibrance could be an … Read More

Network news personality meets cancer survivor

Amy Robach underwent her first-ever mammogram last year, live on “Good Morning America” for breast cancer awareness month, but never imagined she’d hear the words: “You have breast cancer.” Deb Greig was watching from her home in Charleston, South Carolina. The former news director at ABC News’ Charleston affiliate, WCIV, knew of Robach early on in her career, and was … Read More

DIS Metairie Breast MRI received three-year ACR accreditation renewal

Diagnostic Imaging Services has announced that our breast MRI service in Metairie has been awarded another three-year accreditation by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Lead by a DIS MRI technologist, Brandi, DIS met or exceeded standards set by the ACR for quality, patient safety, reporting, technology and expertise. DIS performs breast MRI in Metairie on our high field open … Read More

DIS offers May screening mammogram special in recognition of Mother’s Day

DIS performs screening (and diagnostic) mammograms at all four of our facilities. During the month of May, we offer a special screening mammogram price of only $99. This price special is valid May 1 – May 31, 2015. Our Women’s Center in Metairie will be open each Saturday during May to offer weekend screenings. If you have about 20 minutes, come see … Read More

When would my doctor recommend a ultrasound guided breast biopsy?

Lumps or abnormalities in the breast are often detected by physical examination, mammography, or other imaging studies. However, it is not always possible to tell from these imaging tests whether a growth is benign or cancerous. A breast biopsy is performed to remove some cells—either surgically or through a less invasive procedure involving a hollow needle — from a suspicious … Read More