Doctors may request advanced medical imaging if a patient has unexplained pain or other symptoms that the physician wants to investigate further. Advanced imaging includes one or more special diagnostic tests that allow for visualization of the internal organs and structures of the body. It is the cornerstone of medical diagnostics, and it is vital in virtually every field of medicine.
Advanced imaging techniques play an important role in providing women with high-quality health services, namely 3D mammograms and DEXA bone density scans. These are two of the most commonly used imaging techniques that doctors implement in women’s healthcare.
Let’s talk about these two advanced imaging techniques, how they can help you, and where you can go in The Bronx for medical imaging services that provide excellent scans for your physician’s evaluation – so you can receive an accurate diagnosis and precise, effective treatment of your condition.
Imaging Scanning Technologies for Women’s Health
Two key factors in women’s health as they get older are breast cancer and osteoporosis. The ideal way for your doctor to check these things is through mammograms and bone density scans:
3D Mammograms
A 3D mammogram, also called breast tomosynthesis, gives your doctor three-dimensional visualization of the breast tissue. First, it uses low-dose X-ray technology (as mammograms do) to take multiple images of the inner breast tissue – unlike traditional mammograms, which only take 2D images.
Then, the multiple images of the breast are combined to create a three-dimensional picture. This allows your doctor to see very small cancers, including those that may otherwise be obscured by dense breast tissue.
Research has shown that early detection of breast cancer greatly increases cancer survival. Fortunately, breast cancer is one of the cancers for which there is early screening, which helps catch the disease before it becomes symptomatic – and before it progresses to an advanced and possibly untreatable stage.
A 3D mammogram can detect breast cancer long before it becomes symptomatic or detectable by a lump. If cancer is detected early, it gives the patient more options for treatment. 3D mammograms also have a lower percentage of false positives and false negatives as compared to traditional 2D mammograms.
DEXA Bone Density Scans
This imaging technique is the gold standard for measuring bone density and detecting bone loss. In a DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan, the arm of the DEXA machine passes over the body and then translates the data into pictures and graphs, to be interpreted by your doctor. DEXA bone density scans can detect a low bone mass or osteoporosis.
Women tend to lose bone mass earlier than men do, and this is largely due to hormonal changes after menopause. Plus, men’s bones are naturally larger and denser than women’s bones are.
This is why a DEXA bone density scan is recommended for women who may be at risk of developing osteoporosis because the scans allow for intervention before the condition worsens. Treatments may include taking certain vitamins and minerals, special weight-bearing exercises, and following a prescribed diet to keep your bones strong and healthy.
The decision to undergo an imaging test is ultimately up to the patient. If your doctor has recommended a 3D mammogram or a DEXA bone density scan, it is in your best interest to seriously consider it if you want better health and quality of life.
When looking for an advanced imaging center for your 3D mammogram or DEXA bone scan, it is important to consider the quality of the equipment and the experience of the staff. The center should also be recognized by the community which they serve for the quality of its services.
Advanced Imaging Center in The Bronx, NY
Starling Diagnostics is premier primary care and diagnostic facility with a highly experienced team of radiologists who proudly serve in the Parkchester community of The Bronx. We have exceptional women’s specialty healthcare services, providing ultrasound, 3D mammograms, and DEXA bone scans. Starling Diagnostics maintains an excellent reputation in the tri-state area and is currently accepting new patients.
Find out about the Starling difference when it comes to general healthcare and advanced imaging tests. We have female healthcare practitioners on staff for the ultimate comfort and privacy of our female patients.
To schedule a scan or an appointment with one of our primary care providers, call our clinic today at (718) 319-1610 or fill out our convenient appointment request form online now. We look forward to being your provider for total health!
