Susan Davis is many things. A CEO, an author, an artist, a wife, a mother, and a valued member of the St. Francisville community. Susan Davis is also a survivor. Over a year ago, an abnormality in her breast was detected during a 3D mammogram at Woman’s Hospital of Baton Rouge.

“It was so tiny… I believe the 3D mammography helped catch it early.” — Susan

3D mammography, or breast tomosynthesis, is a non-invasive cancer screening exam. It’s designed to be used in conjunction with traditional mammograms, monthly self-examination, and yearly checkups. This type of mammography is especially beneficial for patients with a personal history, heightened risk of breast cancer, or dense breast tissue.

It uses computer reconstruction to synthesize over 100 x-ray images taken from multiple angles into a single 3D image of the breast. This technology allows doctors to examine the tissue of the breast millimeter by millimeter. The arc-like pattern used to capture the x-rays helps prevent overlapping of breast tissue in the final images.

Dense breast tissue and the compression of ducts and glands necessary to capture x-ray images in traditional mammography have been shown to make effective cancer screening more difficult, according to WFH Imaging Department Manager, Dakisha Bryant. The clarity of images produced has already “helped find a number of cancers which may not have been detected at all”.

With a 3D mammogram, doctors are able to produce clear, precise images of the breast. This helps detect the location of abnormalities in dense tissue with greater accuracy in the same time as a traditional mammogram.

Breast tomosynthesis can be done during the same exam as a 2D mammogram. It uses the same low level of radiation, and the imaging process takes less than 5 seconds. Results from your 3D mammogram can be available in under 24 hours and research has shown a 30% reduction in unnecessary callbacks.

Susan considers herself fortunate that the cancerous growth was discovered at such an early stage. Because of this, the only treatment to remove it was a biopsy, thus saving her from potentially more invasive treatment (e.g., radiation or mastectomy). Susan is currently cancer-free.

“So many things we used to have to travel for are now available here in St. Francisville.”

Since its expansion in 2017, West Feliciana Hospital (WFH)—in partnership with Woman’s Hospital of Baton Rouge—is proud to offer comprehensive breast cancer detection and treatment services at the new facility on the WFH campus. Now, Susan can receive continued treatment and preventive care right here in St. Francisville.

“I love the tight-knit sense of community.”

The owner of the St. Francisville fixture Grandmother’s Buttons and a renowned jeweler, Susan has a deft eye for detail. Since continuing her treatment at West Feliciana Hospital, Susan has been struck by the attention given by community donors and hospital staff. Our community’s hospital is not only a world-class medical facility, but a reflection on the community it serves. Audubon prints hang around every corner. Works by local artists showcase the natural scenes of St. Francisville, and picture windows bring gentle light into the healing spaces of the hospital.

“It’s just such a beautiful facility… so much care was put in to make it visually reflect the community.”

For over 45 years, West Feliciana Hospital has been serving the healthcare needs of St. Francisville and the surrounding communities. After opening its new facility in 2017, WFH is now able to offer expanded comprehensive medical services, the latest technology, and superior healthcare services in a familiar setting.

“I know it will help save lives here.”

We’re proud to bring healing a little closer to home for Susan Davis and the rest of our West Feliciana community. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!