By Liz Cook
Advanced Imaging is now open in Stevensville at the Stevi Junction Plaza, just north of the Ole’s gas station/convenience store. The facility is offering tomosynthesis or 3D imaging, the newest state of the art technology in mammography. According to Diagnostic Radiologist Dr. Michael Stewart, “this technology allows for a deeper image of the breast tissue with a 40% improvement of sensitivity rate. This method gathers between 60 to 90 images per breast. In the end the sensitivity picks up cancer at earlier stages and allows for few call back screenings. In most cases cancer is found before the person is able to feel an abnormality.” According to Dr. Stewart, “finding breast cancer in stage one has a 98% cure rate and often times does not need chemotherapy.”
Some things Dr. Stewart and the staff at Advanced Imaging want you to know is that there are women who are at a higher risk for breast cancer: those with a genetic mutation called BRCA, those from certain ethnic groups and those who have a strong family history. While family history can play a part in the risk for breast cancer, it is important to know that 75% of women diagnosed today have no family history. Dr. Stewart recommends women start getting yearly screening at age 40 as long as they are healthy.
While the procedure can be uncomfortable, it can save lives. With this technology the entire appointment takes about 15 minutes with only about a total of 16 seconds of compression for both breasts. Technician Glynnis Lloyd takes the time to walk through the procedure with each patient and works with their tolerance to make sure the procedure is as comfortable as possible.
In most cases images are read within 24 hours and results are sent back to the patient’s primary care provider.
Secretary/receptionist Rita Hall can help you determine what your insurance will cover. Medicaid and Medicare are accepted and the procedure is covered. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 777-5242, but walk-ins are always welcome. Advanced Imaging is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.