What is QT Breast Imaging
QT stands for three-dimensional Quantitative Transmission (QT) ultrasound imaging. QT imaging uses transmission ultrasound and reflection ultrasound to provide volumetric 3D images. It is FDA cleared which means the manufacturer has demonstrated that QT imaging is a substantial equivalent to another legally marketed device.
QT is 40x the resolution of 3T MRI meaning you get the most crystal clear images available. Additionally, it is the only high-resolution “isotropic” imaging modality in the world.
As I write this there are only six, yes only six centers in the US that offer QT breast imaging. I researched all six locations (and had even tracked flights to California), when a spot opened up closer to me in Haverford, PA (a Philly suburb). My husband and I canceled our previously booked vacation, and I shifted our plans towards prioritizing this scan.
Who is this scan for?
Anyone! The beauty of a QT scan is that it is radiation-free meaning it is safe for everyone. Pregnant women (up to 20 weeks – as you have to lay prone), women with dense breasts, breast implants, previous mammogram exposure, painful mammogram history, new to breast imaging, etc. Literally anyone who wants to have a thorough, FDA-cleared breast evaluation in a comfortable, pain-free setting. The technology only uses sound waves and ultrasound so the experience is 100% comfortable, research backed and again, SAFE!
Locations
If you are on the West Coast then I recommend you check out The Center for New Medicine led by Dr. Erin Connealy. It is the leading Integrative Oncology Center in the US, and as an aside, Dr. Connealy provides wonderful tips via her social media channels.
For my East Coast followers I cannot tell you what a wonderful experience I had at PerfeQTion Imaging led by Dr. Jean Simmons. If you have read my previous post on alternative breast imaging then you know how highly I think of Dr. Simmons. She is a pioneer in the world of breast cancer research and her book, A Smart Women’s Gude to Breast Cancer is a must read.
Traveling to “PerfeQTion Imaging”
PerfeQTion Imaging is where I went for my scan. It is located in Haverford, PA, a subarb off the Main Line outside of Philiadelphia. There are three options to get there: drive, fly, or train. Driving and flying are self-explanatory, and I want to debunk any fears of taking the train. I am a fan of Amtrak and find it to be a pleasant (and sometimes interesting) experience.
For this trip, I was already in DC for other work, and took the 6am Acelea which put me in the William Gray 30th Street Station (Philadelphia) by 730am. At that time of morning the center recommended I take the SEPTA (Southeastern Pennyslvania Transportation Authority) vs. a car service as traffic would be heavy.
The SEPTA station is located in 30th Street Station (small train station to navigate) and you simply purchase your ticket in person, and then pop on the train. There were many options for timing and I only had to wait 5 minutes to get on the SEPTA.
You want to take it towards the Paoli/Thorndale Line and get off at Haverford. I did not time things, but honestly think the whole experience took ~15 min. The SEPTA was extremely clean, orderly, and I felt safe using that transporation style both to and from 30th Street Station.
As soon as you exit the Haverford Station turn left and you will find the best coffee shop, Green Engine Coffee. 
Great atmosphere, wonderful staff, and delicious delectables. PerfeQTion Imaging is only about a three block walk from Green Engine Coffee which made it the perfect location to stop.
QT Breast Imaging Scan
PerfeQTion Imaging was perfection. I felt immediatley at ease walking in – as if I had entered a spa. It was a welcoming, calm, serene environment that put me at ease. You are given a robe to change into (again, evoking spa like images), and then led to your room where the scan takes place. Think zen, spa-like, calm music.
You lay on your stomach, arms comfortable positioned by your head while your breast is guided into warm water. Each breast is imaged separately, about 10 minutes per side (give or take). I replayed Psalm 23 in my head the whole time as I lay there – he leadeth me beside the still waters.
That is my description of the scan – still waters.
Results
The results are emailed to you by a radiologist with recommendations for follow-up, if needed. You own your images and will be provided with copies that you can take back to your own care providers.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, at this time QT Imaging is not covered under insurance and I recognize that the cost may be prohibitive for some. I am not sure about an HSA as I did not pursue that option, but think it would be a reasonable expenditure. I recognize this was a luxury to be able to pursue this type of imaging, and it is my earnest hope (and prayer) that modalities such as this will fall under insurance and be available to all.
In the meantime, educate yourself on your body. Know your body’s norms so that you can identify an abnormal. I say this in regards to the two most frequent cancer screenings: colonoscopies and breast imaging. Integrative modalities are becoming more mainstream – rightfully so – and the research is there to back them up.
I look forward to sharing more about QT imaging in the future. I can guarantee you this will not be my last post, rather the tip of the iceberg. Step into the drivers seat of your health. Educate, inform, inquire, and most importantly listen. You have more control over your body then you might think.
Does it take bravery to question the status quo – absolutely, but know that you are not alone. I for one, am right here, along side of you.
