LCHC Now Offering State-of-the Art 3D Mammography Exams

Lucas County Health Center (LCHC) is committed to the fight against breast cancer and is excited to offer Genius 3D Mammography exams, developed by Hologic, Inc., a worldwide leader in Women’s Health. Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology, Genius exams are clinically proven to significantly increase the detection of breast cancers, while simultaneously decreasing the number of women asked to return for additional testing.

In conventional 2D mammography, overlapping tissue is a leading reason why small breast cancers may be missed and normal tissue may appear abnormal, leading to unnecessary callbacks. A Genius exam includes a three-dimensional method of imaging that can greatly reduce the tissue overlap effect.

A Genius exam includes both 2D images and tomosynthesis scans. During the tomosynthesis-DIMENSIONAL portion of the exam, an X-ray arm sweeps in a slight 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. A Genius exam requires no additional compression and takes just a few seconds longer than a conventional 2D breast cancer screening exam.

“From the beginning of LCHC’s affiliation with UnityPoint Health – Des Moines, LCHC’s Board of Trustees and leaders from UnityPoint made a commitment to upgrading both our facilities and our equipment. The renovation of our clinic and infusion center and the implementation of a single electronic medical record system was only the start for us. The acquisition of our 3D Digital Mammography continues that vision and shows that LCHC is dedicated to providing the best healthcare available to our patients and the communities we serve,” said Brian Sims, CEO at Lucas County Health Center.

The new system is recommended for women of all ages and breast densities. The system allows our radiologists to more effectively pinpoint the size, shape and location of abnormalities. This leads to better detection and greater peace of mind for our patients.

“We are very excited about the addition of 3D Mammography at LCHC. Bringing this technology to our patients will allow us to diagnose breast cancer even earlier, therefore increasing the chances of better outcomes,” said Melissa Ryan, LCHC Radiology Manager.

If you would like to schedule a Genius 3D Mammography exam, or have questions about this important breast health procedure, please contact LCHC’s Radiology Department at (641) 774-3223.