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Media Contact:
Kimberly Boggs
Marketing Director
Kentucky River Medical Center
Phone: 606-666-6449
Email: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kentucky River Medical Center Introduces Advanced 3D Mammography Technology

Jackson, KY (09/20/24)— Kentucky River Medical Center is proud to announce the addition of 3D mammography, also known as tomosynthesis, to its diagnostic services. This cutting-edge technology is clinically proven to significantly improve breast cancer detection rates while reducing the number of women needing follow-up tests.

“Kentucky River Medical Center is deeply committed to the fight against breast cancer,” said Susie Morgan, CEO/CNO of Kentucky River Medical Center. “We’ve already received positive feedback from patients about their experience with this new technology. Our dedicated staff is here to support you through every step of the process.”

Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women in the U.S. during their lifetime. However, early detection dramatically improves outcomes, with a nearly 100% five-year survival rate when cancer is caught early. The American Cancer Society recommends that women aged 40 and older consider annual screening mammograms to improve the chances of early detection.

Mammograms are X-rays of the breast that can detect tumors before they are palpable. Tomosynthesis uses an X-ray arm that moves in an arc over the breast, capturing multiple images. These images are then synthesized into thin layers, allowing radiologists to examine breast tissue one layer at a time. This 3D view provides a more precise and detailed image than traditional 2D mammography.

“This technology is revolutionizing breast cancer detection, especially for women with dense breast tissue,” said Dr. G. Edward Burnette, a member of the medical staff at Kentucky River Medical Center. “It offers a more accurate option for detecting invasive cancers compared to 2D mammograms alone.”

Researchers have found that 3D mammography:

  • Detects 20–65% more invasive breast cancers compared to 2D mammography alone, with an average increase of 41%.
  • Is FDA-approved as an optimal screening method for women with dense breasts.
  • Reduces callbacks for additional testing by up to 40% compared to 2D alone.

The breast is a three-dimensional object composed of different structures located at different heights within the breast. These structures can overlap and cause confusion when viewed as a flat two-dimensional image. This confusion of overlapping of tissue is a leading reason why small breast cancers may be missed, and normal tissue may appear abnormal, leading to unnecessary callbacks.

To schedule a 3D mammogram at Kentucky River Medical Center, call 606-666-6413. A physician referral is not required. 

About Kentucky River Medical Center

Kentucky River Medical Center is 55-bed, acute care facility serving Breathitt, Lee, Owsley and Wolfe counties. Services include emergency, inpatient, surgical, infusion, rehabilitation, lab, and diagnostic imaging.