Breast Imaging Services

Screening and Diagnostic Mammography- Breast Imaging services at Saints Medical Center include the latest advancement in mammography; 3D mammography. 3D mammography (Tomosynthesis), is a new leading edge technology now available in both of our locations, Lowell and North Andover. The machine moves over the breast in an arc and takes multiple images. The radiologist is able to see structures that may have been hidden by overlapping tissue in the conventional 2D mammogram.

The 3D view improves the radiologist's ability to screen and detect potential breast cancers, enabling them to pinpoint the size, shape and location of abnormalities. This exciting new technology leads to fewer callbacks and less anxiety for women.

The 3D mammogram is currently performed as a complement to standard digital mammography at the same time on the same scanner. There is essentially no noticeable difference in experience or time for the patient. Adding the 3D mammogram to the standard mammogram does involve a minimal amount of additional radiation. The radiation dose for the combined exam (standard mammogram plus 3D mammogram at the same time) is under the FDA regulated limit for conventional mammography and is comparable to having an additional mammographic image. This total dose is minimal, and of negligible risk to the patient. The FDA thoroughly considered the radiation issue and ruled that the benefit of the additional information available to the radiologist outweighs any potential risk. For additional information, please see our FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions).

Stereotactic breast biopsy offers the most advanced technology to obtain tiny samples from an abnormal breast mass for examination to confirm if the abnormality is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). A less invasive alternative to open surgery, stereotactic biopsy lets patients return to normal activities as soon as the procedure is completed.

Breast MRI is a powerful tool for the evaluation of patients with breast cancer, patients who are at high risk for developing breast cancer, and patients with very dense breast tissue.

MRI of the breast is not a replacement for mammography but rather a supplemental tool for detecting and staging breast cancer and other breast abnormalities. Saints is pleased to offer patients access to dedicated Breast MRI technology and exam interpretations by breast imaging specialists from Mass General. The Saints breast imaging service in Lowell is accredited by the American College of Radiology in Mammography, Breast Ultrasound and Core Biopsy. The Saints Women's Center for Health and Wellness breast imaging service is accredited by the American College of Radiology in Mammography.