WHAT IS A 3D MAMMOGRAPHY BREAST EXAM?

3D mammography is a revolutionary new screening and diagnostic tool designed for early breast cancer detection that can be done in conjunction with a traditional 2D digital mammogram.

During the 3D part of the exam, the X-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over your breast, taking multiple breast images. Then, a computer produces a 3D image of your breast tissue in one-millimeter slices, providing greater visibility for the radiologist to see breast detail in a way never before possible. They can scroll through images of your entire breast like pages of a book.

The additional 3D images make it possible for a radiologist to gain a better understanding of your breast tissue during screening and the confidence to reduce the need for follow-up imaging.

WHY IS THERE A NEED FOR 3D MAMMOGRAPHY BREAST EXAMS? WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

With conventional digital mammography, the radiologist is viewing all the complexities of your breast tissue in one flat image. Sometimes breast tissue can overlap, giving the illusion of normal breast tissue looking like an abnormal area.

By looking at the breast tissue in one-millimeter slices, the radiologist can provide a more confident assessment. In this way, 3D mammography finds cancers missed with conventional 2D mammography. It also means there is less chance your doctor will call you back later for a “second look,” because now they can see breast tissue more clearly.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SCREENING AND DIAGNOSTIC MAMMOGRAM?

A screening mammogram is your annual mammogram that is done every year. Sometimes the radiologist may ask you to come back for follow-up images, which is called a diagnostic mammogram, to rule out an unclear area in the breast or if there is a breast complaint that needs to be evaluated.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THE 3D MAMMOGRAPHY EXAM?

3D mammography complements standard 2D mammography and is performed at the same time with the same system. There is no additional compression required, and it only takes a few seconds longer for each view.

IS THERE MORE RADIATION DOSE?

Very low X-ray energy is used during the exam, just about the same amount as a traditional mammogram done on film.

WHO CAN HAVE A 3D MAMMOGRAPHY EXAM?

It is approved for all women who would be undergoing a standard mammogram, in both the screening and diagnostic settings.