Monroe, Ga. (Sept. 18, 2019) – Piedmont Walton Hospital is now offering three-dimensional (3-D) mammograms, also known as the tomosynthesis 3-D imaging. The 3-D mammogram provides more detailed images of the breast tissue, which can decrease the number of false positive diagnoses and increase the chances of early detection of breast cancer.

Piedmont Walton is one of few healthcare facilities in the area offering the technology.

“We’re pleased to be able to offer this important screening tool to our patients in Walton County,” said Rose Dennis, executive director of patient services at Piedmont Walton. “While digital mammography remains one of the most advanced technologies today, it’s only a 2-dimensional image. A 3-D mammography allows for a better image of the breast interior and improves chances of early detection.”

A traditional 2-D mammography usually takes images from two angles and creates a flat image of the breast for doctors to review. The new imaging unit allows doctors to examine the breast tissue one layer at a time, building what is essentially a 3-D image.

“Early detection is critical in increasing the survival rate among breast cancer patients,” Dennis said. “When detected early, breast cancer patients have a better chance of being treated successfully and recovering.”

Aside from skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women and is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, according to the American Cancer Society. The average risk of a woman in the United States developing breast cancer sometime in her life is 1-in-8.

Survival rates continue to increase due to early detection, increased awareness and improved treatment options. Today, there are more than 3.1 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.

In addition to 3-D mammography, Piedmont Walton will soon provide diagnostic mammography, breast ultrasound, bone densitometry, stereotactic guided biopsy and ultrasound guided biopsy.