What is a 3D Mammography?
Breast tomosynthesis allows doctors to examine breast tissue one layer at a time. Breast tomosynthesis is a new technology in the fight against breast cancer. Breast tomosynthesis may be used in conjunction with traditional digital mammography as part of your annual screening mammogram to capture more breast images. Very low X-ray energy is used during the screening examination so your radiation exposure is safely below the American College of Radiology (ACR) guidelines. Using breast tomosysnthesis and digital mammography together for screening has been proven to reduce “call backs”.
Breast tomosynthesis may be used for a diagnostic mammogram if you happen to need one.
Benefits of a 3D Mammogram
More accurate detection: By minimizing the impact of overlapping breast tissue, 3D mammography can make a tumor easier to see. Reviewing multiple images has helped doctors find more cancers than with 2D images alone.
Preparation
Please do not wear any lotion or deodorant the day of your exam. We will have some for you to put on after exam.
Risks of a 3D Mammogram
Because any x-ray procedures use radiation, including mammography, there is some small risk of radiation side effects to the body. The normal amount of radiation administered in a mammogram is exceptionally low and has been approved by national and international regulatory agencies as well as the National Department of Health and Human Services.
Result
The technologist sends your breast images electronically to the radiologist, who studies them and reports results to you and your physician. Our physician will personally provide you your results.
