Breast Care
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. AllianceHealth Durant provides helpful services to educate women on breast health, and encourage self-exams and routine screenings. We utilize imaging technology that may detect breast cancer at the earliest stages, when treatment can be most effective. The combination of caring technologists and imaging technology allows us to deliver quality care.
Digital Mammography
A mammogram is a non-invasive X-ray of the breast used to screen for breast cancer or other abnormalities. Mammography can help detect breast cancer at its earliest stages when treatment can be most effective. According to the American College of Radiology, mammography has helped reduce breast cancer mortality in the U.S. by nearly 40 percent since 1990.
3D mammography (tomosynthesis) is a digital mammography option for some patients, particularly those with dense breasts, that allows physicians to examine breast tissue layer by layer. Instead of viewing all the complexities of breast tissue in a flat image, as with traditional 2D mammography, fine details are more visible and no longer hidden by the tissue above or below. This improvement is visualization often increases invasive cancer detection rates and reduces callback rates, thus reducing patient anxiety when called to return for additional imaging.
With digital tomosynthesis breast imaging technology, multiple technology, multiple images are acquired of each breast from different angles and are reconstructed into 3D image. This technology provides the radiologist with more information and help to overcome some of the limitations of standard mammography.**
Benefits of Digital Mammography
Some benefits of digital mammography may include:
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Improved accuracy of screening exams, especially for women with dense breast tissue.
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Less radiation exposure.
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Greater image quality, reducing the need for repeat exams.
For women of average risk, the American College of Radiology recommends annual mammograms starting at age 40. Different guidelines apply to women at higher risk. For American College of Radiology recommendations or to view other statistics, visit acr.org.
Breast Ultrasound
A breast ultrasound is often used to further evaluate an abnormality found during a mammogram. Ultrasound allows doctors to see the area closest to the chest wall, which can be difficult to see using mammography. This technology also helps doctors determine whether a breast lump is filled with fluid (a cyst) or is a solid mass.
To schedule your annual mammogram, please call (580) 931-2079.
**According to acr.org, breast tomosynthesis (3D) has shown to be an advance over digital (2D) mammography, with higher cancer detection rates and fewer patient recalls for additional testing.
Appointments are on a first-come, first served basis. An order from a physician or qualified healthcare provider is not required, but the patient must provide a physician/provider name when an appointment is made. If the patient does not have a physician/provider, a list will be provided for selection. All mammogram reports will be sent to the physician/provider, and the patient is responsible for follow-up.
Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for a screening mammogram. If you do not have insurance, options may be available to help with the cost.