TRA Launches 3D Mammography in Olympia

OLYMPIA, Wash.,– TRA Medical Imaging, one of the largest sub-specialized radiology practices in Washington, is proud to offer tomosynthesis (commonly known as 3D mammography) at its TRA Olympia-on Lilly clinic starting May 28. The revolutionary screening and diagnostic breast imaging tool improves the early detection of breast cancer.

“We are ecstatic to be able to offer 3D mammography to our Olympia-area patients,” says Khai Tran, M.D., medical director of the breast services at TRA Medical Imaging. “We strongly believe that early detection saves lives.” Women whose breast cancer is detected at an early stage have over a 93% or more survival rate in the first five years.

Approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2011, 3D mammography is used in conjunction with conventional 2D digital mammography and will be available to all patients at TRA-Olympia on Lilly. During the 3D portion of the exam, an x-ray arm sweeps over the breast, taking multiple images in seconds. A computer then produces a 3D image of the breast tissue in one millimeter layers. This allows our radiologists to scroll through images of the entire breast like pages of a book, examining breast tissue one layer at a time. Fine details are more visible and are less likely to be hidden by overlapping tissue.

The groundbreaking technology is proven to detect more cancers and is expected to save more lives. Combining 3D mammography with traditional 2D mammography has demonstrated a superior cancer detection rate – improved by as much as 10-30% over 2D imaging alone. 3D mammography has also been proven to reduce the number of call-backs for further imaging by as much as 30% because it allows the radiologist to see the breast tissue more clearly. This new technology can provide patients peace of mind due to greater clarity and accuracy, and may spare the anxiety, inconvenience and expense of coming back for additional exams and procedures.

No additional breast compression is required for a 3D mammogram. The exam looks and feels like traditional mammograms and just takes a few seconds longer.

All women are at risk for breast cancer, regardless of symptoms or family history. Mammograms often can detect potential problems before they can be felt. Early detection greatly increases treatment options and the likelihood of successful recovery. Although 2D/3D combination exams have been proven to detect more cancers, TRA Medical Imaging continues to support the American Cancer Society’s guidelines which recommend that women 40 and older receive a routine screening mammogram every year.

“We are excited to offer this very important service in Thurston County,” says Greg Pearson, Clinic Manager for TRA Olympia-on Lilly.

Those who want to learn more about 3D mammography at TRA Medical Imaging should visit www.tranow.com/3D. Those who want to schedule their appointment should call (360) 413-8383. TRA Olympia-on Lilly is located inside the Memorial Medical Plaza at 500 Lilly Road NE, in Olympia.

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About TRA Medical Imaging
TRA Medical Imaging is the community’s trusted source for convenient diagnostic imaging throughout the south Puget Sound. We are a local partnership of sub-specialized radiologists providing high quality, patient-centered care since 1943. TRA has combined compassionate, individualized care with leading-edge technology to offer the highest expertise and quality in medical imaging. Our radiology physicians, technologists, and staff provide our referring physicians and patients with excellence in care.

TRA Medical Imaging provides over 700,000 interpretations annually within eight hospitals and for eleven TRA operated outpatient imaging centers. TRA has a long, collaborative history of working with virtually all insurance providers operating within Washington, and offers low, out-of-pocket exam costs, as well as generous financial assistance to eligible patients.

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