This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about detecting, treating and preventing breast cancer. The most effective way to fight breast cancer is with early detection, and mammograms are the best way to detect cancer. But women at higher risk may need additional screening. A new, three-dimensional ultrasound technique may be a good way to do this screening.

Dr. Phil Evans, director of the Center for Breast Care at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says ultrasound is particularly helpful for women with dense breast tissue. The down side of ultrasound is that it’s performed by a technician moving a transducer over the breast, and no two technicians do this the same way. With the 3D technique, a computer performs the scan in a programmed way, producing a computer image that shows the breast from all angles.

Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/radiology to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in radiology.