(Peoria, IL / August 15, 2013) – A mammogram is an important breast cancer screening tool. The OSF Saint Francis Centers for Breast Health now offer a three-dimensional mammogram called 3D Breast Tomosynthesis at the Center for Health Rt. 91 and Morton locations.

3D mammography is a new screening and diagnostic tool designed for early breast cancer detection that is done in conjunction with a traditional 2D digital mammogram.

“3D breast Tomosynthesis provides images of the breast in thin slices that allow the radiologist to assess the breast slice by slice, like pages in a book,” explains Dr. Jessica Guingrich with Central Illinois Radiological Associates. “This helps the radiologist see findings that could be obscured by overlapping tissue and better visualize normal tissue structures.”

The additional 3D images make it possible for a radiologist to gain a better understanding of the breast tissue during a screening or diagnostic mammogram, and the confidence to reduce the need for follow-up imaging.

The upgraded 3D mammography systems at the Center for Health Rt. 91 and Morton allow the 3D imaging to be done at the same time with no additional compression required, and it only takes a few seconds longer for each view.

Women in our community have an important decision to make before scheduling their next mammogram. Do you prefer a 3D tomosynthesis mammogram? Here are the criteria to consider:

– If this is your baseline mammogram.
– If you have dense breast tissue. Women are encouraged to ask their physician if they have dense breast tissue, as it is a risk factor for breast cancer.
– If you have breast cancer risk factors that concern you. Women are encouraged to discuss risk factors with their physician.

For more information about the new 3D breast Tomosynthesis offered at the OSF Saint Francis Centers for Breast Health visit www.osfsaintfrancis.org/breastcenter or call 309-683-5522.