Desert Imaging Acquires Two 3D Mammography Systems
The Importance of the 3D Mammogram Just Ask Sheryl Crow
Breast health in El Paso just received a significant boost thanks to Desert Imaging’s acquisition of two cutting-edge 3-D mammography systems. Desert Imaging Services, LP, El Paso’s premier diagnostic imaging company, proudly announces the arrival of two Hologic systems that feature the Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam. This exam, known as “breast tomosynthesis,” detects breast cancer sooner, provides enhanced image clarity and reduces the number of unnecessary biopsies. This system’s exceptionally sharp images will enable Desert Imaging to detect an average of 41 percent more invasive breast cancers , reduce callbacks by up to 40 percent , and allow its radiologists to perform tomosynthesis-guided biopsies.
“Our new mammography systems enhance our ability to detect cancerous cells as early as possible, which is the most critical step toward surviving breast cancer,” said Raul J. Arizpe, President and Chief Operating Officer of Desert Imaging. “At the same time, thousands of women across El Paso will now have greater access to this life-saving technology at a more cost-effective price point than our local hospitals. This is a true testament of our pledge to provide the highest quality of care to our patients.”
The Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam
In two Desert Imaging clinics
The Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam, available on the Selenia® Dimensions® system from Hologic, is available at two Desert Imaging clinics across El Paso: (Eastside) 1727 Lee Trevino Drive 79936, and (Westside) 122 W. Castellano Drive 79912. These systems expand Desert Imaging’s comprehensive commitment to promoting breast health in the region when coupled with its existing breast services including digital mammography, breast MRI, breast ultrasound and breast biopsy.
Case Study 2D vs 3D
A conventional x-ray examination of the breast, called a mammogram, is two-dimensional (2D): two x-ray images are taken of the breast, from top-to-bottom and from angled side-to-side, while the breast is compressed between a clear plastic paddle and an imaging detector. Although compression is necessary to obtain breast images, it may cause overlapping of the breast tissue in which abnormal tissue can be hidden and superimposed normal tissue can appear abnormal.
Breast tomosynthesis
Breast tomosynthesis is an advanced form of breast imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system and computer reconstructions to create three-dimensional images of the breasts. During this 3D exam, the x-ray arm sweeps in a light arc over the breast, taking multiple images. A computer then converts the images into a stack of thin layers, allowing the radiologist to review the breast tissue one layer at a time. This process minimizes the tissue overlap that can hide cancers or make it difficult to distinguish normal overlapping breast tissue from tumors. It also requires no additional compression and virtually the same imaging time as a conventional 2D breast cancer screening exam.
New Hours
In anticipation of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Desert Imaging has expanded the operational hours of its clinics. From now through the end of December 2018, all four locations are open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Our Goal
“Our goal is to make ourselves available so our patients receive accurate diagnostic results in as timely a manner as possible,” said Raul J. Arizpe, President and Chief Operating Officer of Desert Imaging. “Since early detection and treatment is the cornerstone of breast cancer control, our Technologists and Radiologists are standing by to immediately assist every patient who enters our doors.”
2 mobile Mammogram units
In addition to its four clinics, Desert Imaging also operates two mobile Mammogram units in El Paso and two in the Rio Grande Valley. Known as “MOM” for “Mammos on the Move”, these units are dispatched directly to organizations and businesses to maximize patient access to this life-saving service.