Women who undergo routine mammograms at Sidney Health Center now have the latest screening and diagnostic technology available to them.

Through a grant in the amount of $512,520 from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Center, Sidney Health Center was able to purchase a Selenia^® Dimensions^® breast tomosynthesis system that is made by Hologic. The Selenia Dimensions system offers exceptionally sharp breast images, an advanced ergonomic design providing more patient comfort, and the groundbreaking tomosynthesis platform designed to deliver superior screening and diagnostic performance.

“We are thrilled to be among the growing number of facilities across the nation designated as a Pink Ribbon Facility that offers Hologic breast tomosynthesis for area women,” stated Linda Labatte, radiology manager. “The 3D mammography adds another level of detecting cancer at its earliest stage and compliments our cancer care services nicely!”

To kick-off National Breast Cancer Awareness month in October, Sidney Health Center will be hosting a Mammography Open House on Tuesday, October 1 from 10:00AM – 2:00PM in the Radiology Department. The community is invited to stop by and tour the mammography room and see first-hand the benefits of the new 3D mammography. Refreshments will be served and a chance to win many great door prizes!

Breast tomosynthesis produces a three-dimensional view of the breast tissue that helps radiologists identify and characterize individual breast structures without the confusion of overlapping tissue. In fact, breast cancer screening with tomosynthesis has a higher cancer detection rate than conventional 2D mammography alone.¹   Tomosynthesis technology gives radiologists increased confidence with a significant reduction in recall rates. ²

The tomosynthesis screening experience is similar to a traditional mammogram.  During a tomosynthesis exam, multiple, low-dose images of the breast are acquired at different angles.  These images are then used to produce a series of one-millimeter thick slices that can be viewed as a 3D reconstruction of the breast.

By offering women the latest technology in mammography, Sidney Health Center expects to increase the number of area women who will be routinely screened.  Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, exceeded only by lung cancer.  Statistics indicate that one in eight women will develop breast cancer sometime in her lifetime. The stage at which breast cancer is detected influences a woman’s chance of survival. If detected early, the five-year survival rate is 98 percent. ³

Sidney Health Center is committed to the fight against breast cancer. In offering breast tomosynthesis digital mammography, Sidney Health Center provides the latest in imaging technology. If you would like to schedule a mammogram or have questions about this important breast health procedure, please contact your medical provider.

Pictured:  The mammography staff proudly display the Pink Ribbon Facility plaque that Sidney Health Center received with the recent installation of the Selenia Dimensions 3D mammography unit from Hologic.

¹ Skaane P, Gullien R, Eben EB, et. al. Reading time of FFDM and tomosynthesis in a population-based screening program.
    Radiological Society of North America annual meeting. Chicago, Il, 2011.

² Hologic, Inc. FDA PMA submission P080003.

³ Breast Cancer Facts & Figures 2011, American Cancer Society.