New 3D Tomosynthesis Technology Now Available.

While breast cancer can take years to develop, women rarely have any symptoms in the early stages. However, if breast cancer is found early with a mammogram, the five-year survival rate is 98%. Mammograms, along with clinical breast exams and general breast awareness, are vital for early detection and successful treatment.

During the month of October, after a patient has her routine mammogram at the Manton Women’s Imaging Center at Newton-Wellesley Hospital or other locations in Natick and Walpole, she will be asked to pay it forward in an effort to potentially save a life. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Newton-Wellesley Hospital is asking patients coming in for a mammogram to pass along a pink reminder card to their mother, sister, daughter, or friend as a way to encourage a loved one to schedule her annual mammogram.

“Our goal is to increase awareness about the importance of early detection as the first step in the fight against breast cancer,” said Alan Semine, MD, Chief of Breast Imaging, Newton-Wellesley Hospital. Screening mammograms are used to identify breast changes that may represent cancer in women who have no breast complaints or symptoms. Finding breast cancer early greatly improves a woman’s chance for successful treatment.

The Women’s Imaging Center at Newton-Wellesley Hospital offers sensitive, compassionate care of the highest quality provided by expert radiologists and mammographers using the most advanced equipment available.

Tomosynthesis, also known as 3D mammography, is a new technology that allows the physician to see thin mammography sections of the entire breast. This results in better detail without the superimposed tissue above and below each section that can hide abnormalities on the traditional two-dimensional image provided by mammography.

Tomosynthesis provides physicians with a clearer image of the breast tissue and decreases the need for further examinations. This technology can help distinguish superimposed tissue from real abnormalities, leading to fewer call backs and less anxiety for women. Tomosynthesis may also find smaller cancers at earlier stages. Almost all patients who need a screening or diagnostic mammogram can benefit from having 3D mammography. Tomosynthesis is especially helpful for women with dense breast tissue.

Screening mammograms are offered at Newton-Wellesley Hospital and at two off-site Ambulatory Care Centers at 307 West Central Street, Natick and 111 Norfolk Street, Walpole. To schedule a mammogram appointment at any of these locations, call 617.243.6829. For more information, visit www.nwh.org/breastimaging