Breast Imaging
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. Merit Health Natchez provides 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 helps us to deliver quality care.
3D Mammography
Merit Health Natchez is excited to offer 3D mammography exams. Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology, these 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 3D exam includes a three-dimensional method of imaging that can greatly reduce the tissue overlap effect.
A 3D exam includes both 2D images and tomosynthesis scans. During the tomosynthesis 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. An exam requires no additional compression and takes just a few seconds longer than a conventional 2D breast cancer screening exam. This approach with a 3D mammography exam is improving how breast cancer is detected by providing another option for women of all breast densities compared to 2D alone.
In addition, 3D mammography exams feature a curved breast stabilization system, which provides a contoured compression surface that has been clinically proven to deliver a more comfortable patient experience without compromising image quality, exam time, dose or workflow.
Merit Health Natchez is committed to the fight against breast cancer. In offering the 3D exam, our goal is to provide a more accurate tool for breast cancer screening with the added benefit of a more comfortable experience by offering the curved compression paddle.
If you would like to schedule a 3D mammogram exam, please call (601) 443-2230. A physician order is required for scheduling.
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.
Stereotactic Biopsies
When a lump or abnormal area is detected during screening, a biopsy can determine whether cells are cancerous. Advanced imaging technology - such as MRI, mammography or ultrasound - can be combined with minimally invasive techniques to obtain tissue samples. Merit Health Natchez offers digital stereotactic biopsies, and women can choose to be seated or lying down during the procedure for maximum comfort.