HRMC Celebrates One Year of 3D Mammography with successful MQSA Inspection
September 29, 2022
Ann Van Winkle & Lanah Reimer,
mammography technicians
Huron Regional Medical Center (HRMC) mammography recently passed the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) inspection, according to Deb Rycraft, RT(R)(M), RDMS, RVT, director of medical imaging for HRMC. The intent of the MQSA inspection is to ensure that women receive high quality mammography for early breast cancer detection by requiring the establishment of a federal certification and inspection program for mammography facilities, according to the Food and Drug Administration. HRMC also holds the gold seal of accreditation in mammography from the American College of Radiology (ACR), which is evaluated every three years through a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists.
Mammography is a specific type of imaging test that uses a low-dose digital x-ray system to examine breast tissue. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women. Just over one year ago, HRMC moved from traditional 2D mammography, which takes images of two sides of a patient’s breast to install upgraded 3D technology. HRMC’s 3D mammography system, the GE Senographe Pristina, takes several photos while the machine moves in an arc, and then splices the photo together to create a 3D image. The 3D mammography system also includes a 3D biopsy platform. Within 15 minutes, the technologist can have the biopsy platform set up so a physician can locate the concerning area and perform the biopsy right in the mammography suite.
Erick Larson, HRMC president and CEO at HRMC, is proud to have 3D mammography and biopsy capabilities available at HRMC, a critical access hospital. “The investment the HRMC board of directors made in 3D mammography a year ago remains a testament to their commitment to provide our community with excellent diagnostic technology and quality care, close to home.”, said Larson. Using mammography technology for regular cancer screenings can help radiologists detect small changes in the breast leading to finding cancer in more treatable stages. “Early detection is key for survival of breast cancer” Lanah Reimer RT(R)(M), mammography technologist explained.
One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS), and breast cancer screenings are a vital step in prevention. Annual mammograms allow physicians to detect cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages. The ACS recommends women of average risk for breast cancer begin getting yearly screening mammograms at age 45. Women who have a personal or family history, should talk with their doctor about earlier screening. To schedule a 3D mammogram, call 605-354-6334 or visit www.huronregional.org/mammo.
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