Digital Mammography and 3D Tomosynthesis

Our breast imaging specialists utilize the most advanced technologies in breast health care including digital mammography, ultrasound and state of the art 3D Tomosynthesis. In addition to exceptional interpretations and exam consultations for patients and referring physicians, our board certified breast health experts perform a variety of leading edge minimally invasive, image guided biopsy procedures to determine the nature of any abnormal finding. Digital Mammography, along with 3D Tomosynthesis is the most effective means of detecting breast cancer in its earliest stage and when it is most receptive to treatment. During an annual screening exam utilizing digital mammography, images are taken of each breast from multiple angles. When 3D Tomosynthesis is used the X-Ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast taking multiple layers of breast images in seconds. 3D mammography is especially effective in dense breast tissue where small cancers may be difficult to detect. If additional information is needed, a breast ultrasound or breast biopsy may be required. All women are at risk for breast cancer and regular screening has proven to be an important tool for early detection of breast cancer. The new 3D technology that Putnam Radiology Group offers gives more clarity, and confidence to detect abnormalities and can detect cancers up to 40% earlier than traditional mammography. Regular screening with 3D provides women greater peace of mind in managing their breast health care.

Ultrasounds

Ultrasound is a safe, painless diagnostic procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize parts of the body and create images. Our board certified radiologists use these images to help diagnose and examine issues such as:

Abdominal and pelvic function
Breast abnormalities
Male reproductive systems
Kidney and thyroid systems
Vascular function
Ultrasound images can also be enhanced with Doppler techniques to diagnose blood clots by capturing images of blood moving through blood vessels.

Bone Density

Bone Densitometry measures the bone mineral density (BMD) of the spine and the hip. These two areas of the body are at a particularly high risk for fracture. Putnam Radiology Group uses Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptionmetry (DEXA), a reliable method of testing BMD to determine early stages of bone loss associated with osteoporosis. According to The National Osteoporosis Foundation, an estimated 55% of Americans age 50 and older have osteoporosis or low bone mass. Over 45 million people are affected by this condition, but with early diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and the use of bone densitometry, the prognosis for patients is greatly improved.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) exam is a modern way of looking at disease processes without using radiation. MRI exams produce highly detailed images of the body and changes in tissue chemistry by using a powerful magnet with an advanced computer system and radio waves. It is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions of the brain, spine, abdomen and joints. At Putnam Radiology Group , our MRI suite is developed to make your experience as comfortable as possible. With natural lighting, headphones for listening to music, and a two-way communication system that allows you to speak with a technologist at any time, your wellbeing is our top priority. Patients are welcome to bring their own music to listen to during exams.

CT

CT is a quick, painless diagnostic exam that uses computerized X-Ray technology. CT Scans allow radiologists to see the location, nature and extent of many different diseases, organs or abnormalities.  Ourmulti-slice helical CT scanner generates data and detail quickly and accurately. Its technological capability provides clear, high quality images, which leads to earlier, more accurate diagnoses. CT Scans are frequently used to analyze:

• Head/Brain
• Liver
• Pancreas
• Intestines
• Kidneys
• Adrenal glands
• Lungs
• Heart
• Blood vessels
• Abdominal cavity
• Spinal cord

Diagnostic X-ray

Diagnostic X-Ray is a painless procedure that allows the radiologist to analyze bony and soft tissue anatomy for diagnosis. Common X-Ray exams include:

• Chest
• Bones
• Digestive system studies

In all procedures, a very low dose of radiation is used, which makes them an extremely safe diagnostic tool.

LUNG CANCER

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in men and women. It is estimated that about 150,000 people will die from lung cancer this year. That is more than colon, breast, and prostate cancer combined.

Lung cancer occurs when cells within your lungs start growing on their own. This uncontrollable growth increases in size to eventually form a detectable tumor. Some tumors can cause death (malignant) and spread to other regions of the body (metastasize).

About 85% of lung cancers are related to smoking. The best way to lower your risk of lung cancer is not to smoke or stop smoking

Once any cancer occurs, the first goal is early detection. This is because patient survival improves dramatically when cancers are found at a smaller, earlier stage. This is especially true with lung cancer.
Lung cancer has a very high death rate. This is partly because of the nature of the cancer itself and partly because it is often found when it is larger. If patients present to the doctor with symptoms of lung cancer, the tumor is often larger in size. If caught earlier, lung cancer can be curable.

CT LUNG SCREENING

Doctors have studied how to find these small tumors early in their growth. In 2013, the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended that patient’s at high risk for lung cancer undergo low radiation dose CT Lung Screening. In 2015, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) began coverage for CT Lung Screening.

Because CT Lung Screening has been shown to saves lives and is now recommend, most private insurance plans are required to cover this exam without co-pay or deductible.

WHO SHOULD BE SCREENED

Men and Women should undergo screening if:

• Age 55-77 years old
• Smoked cigarettes for at least 30 pack years (pack years = number of packs smoked per day times number years smoked)
• Currently smoke or quit less than 15 years ago
• Currently without symptoms of cancer

If you meet criteria for screening, you are encouraged to talk with you primary doctor or contact a center performing these exams.

WHAT TO EXPECT

CT Lung scan is quick and easy. You are brought back to a private CT exam room, lay down flat on a table, hold your breath for less that 20 seconds, and that is it. No needle, pain, claustrophobia or recovery.

The exam is actually called Low Dose Lung CT because in has 90% less radiation when compared to a standard lung CT. The risk to patients to develop cancer as a result of undergoing exam is very minimal.

If nothing is found that needs closer follow up, you should have Lung Screening once a year. You should have them as long as you are smoking or up to 15 years after you quit smoking. Having the CT every year is important to maximize the benefit of this program.

EXAM COST

If you have insurance, the screening CT is usually covered. Most private insurers are required to cover the exam without patient copay or deductible. If you do not have insurance, the self pay cost is about $250. Our office staff will assist you to determine if the exam will be covered by your insurance.

SCREENING RESULTS

Our board certified radiologists will usually evaluate the exam the same day it is performed. The results are typically available by the next day.

Most of the nodules that are found on CT are not lung cancer. Depending on the appearance and size of the nodule, the radiologist will make a recommendation as to the follow up. Some nodules may require closer follow up scans, additional testing, or a biopsy. These additional follow up tests or procedures are also usually covered by insurance.

OUR CENTERS

Our imaging facilities are American College of Radiology accredited and our Radiologists are board certified with extensive experience with Lung CT exams.