By: Jenna Rehnstrom
jrehnstrom@kcautv.com
It's the latest in screening technology, using the gold standard for detecting breast cancer.
And now, for the first time, St. Luke's hospital is offering Siouxland women digital mammography.
Thanks, in part, to a grant from the Helmsley Charitable Trust, St. Luke's was able to buy two new digital mammography machines for its imaging and breast screening center.
That not only means more women can get the best screening with the best technology, but also in less time.
"In the analog world, with films screens, is what we used to have, it's a slower process, because you actually do an image and that image has to be developed in a darkroom, with a special processor, so that adds minutes, many minutes to the exam time. It's cut the time about in half," said Cheryl Michalsky, Director of the Imaging and Breast Screening Center.
You see, the technologist can read your mammogram right as it's being taken. Just as quickly, images can be sent to your doctor. Not only is it a time–saving addition, but a worry–reducing one for patients.
"I think some of the anxiety goes away a little bit, because the technologist is not leaving the room and leaving you in there by yourself while she's developing the pictures to make sure they came out okay," said Michalsky.
Around 30 women get mammograms every day at the imaging center, precisely why increased efficiency benefits, not only the staff, but patients, as well.
If you'd like to take a peak at the new digital mammography suites, St. Luke's is hosting an event called "Mammos and Mimosas" Wednesday, June 6th from 5pm to 6:30. It's free to the public. Just go to the second floor of the Physician Center Two building.
