Hospital now offers 3-D mammography screening

FARMINGTON — San Juan Regional Medical Center is now offering a new technology that could improve early detection of breast cancer, according to a press release from the hospital.

Digital breast tomosynthesis, also known as 3-D mammography, allows a radiologist to look for abnormalities in more areas than the 2-D mammography. According to the press release, 3-D mammography is especially beneficial to patients with dense breast tissue, a family history of breast cancer or women who are regularly called back for additional tests.

The new technology does not increase the amount of time it takes to screen women, and there is no additional discomfort, the release states.

Digital breast tomosynthesis is offered at San Juan Regional Medical Center, 801 W. Maple St., and the Outpatient Diagnostic Center on 30th Street. Both locations are equipped with sensory suites that allow patients to control what they see, hear and smell during the procedure.

The money to purchase the technology was partially covered by donations collected at October's Breast Cancer Awareness Month events.