The Markey Cancer Center at the University of Kentucky is offering a new technology in its Comprehensive Breast Care Center.

Digital tomosynthesis will be available for the first time in Kentucky at the center beginning in February.

The process allows the technician to take multiple X-ray pictures and combines them all into one 3-D image. The university says it allows radiologists to see individual breast structures without the confusion of overlapping tissues.

The exam is no different from a regular mammogram except that it takes a few seconds longer. The center says the scan is more comprehensive and is able to find smaller and earlier-stage cancers.

Markey Director Dr. Mark Evers says earlier detection increases the chances of recovery, meaning the technology has the potential to save many lives.

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