What is 3D Mammography?

Early detection is the best defense, but did you know that 30% of cancers go undetected with a standard 2D mammogram? 3D mammography (also known as digital tomosynthesis) is a highly detailed form of screening which combines multiple 2D images to recreate a 3D picture of the breast. 3D mammography is considered more thorough and effective than 2D mammograms and offers fewer false positives, as well as improves the detection of cancer by 40%! Screenings allow for early detection as they help doctors find breast cancer before it causes symptoms or warning signs. The 3D technology may be particularly helpful for some patients, such as those with dense breast tissue, which can make it difficult to detect abnormalities with a traditional 2D mammogram.

3D mammography produces a three-dimensional digital image of the breast by sending x-ray signals through the breast tissue from different angles. Each angle produces a 2D image, which is compiled into a 3D image. This technology aids in greater accuracy and early detection of invasive cancers. In most cases, 3D mammography does not pose any risks or adverse effects; The technology produces low radiation exposure and is FDA approved.

2D vs 3D

Traditional 2D images limit the amount of detail that can be seen in the breast tissue. 3D imaging provides a clearer, more detailed picture, which greatly increases the chances of identifying malignant growths. The process allows doctors to inspect very small, individual sections of the breast tissue. 3D imaging is particularly great for those with dense breast tissue, which can make it difficult to detect cancer with a 2D mammogram.

Who should get a 3D Mammogram?

Most Insurance companies cover a baseline 3D mammogram for women ages 35-39. It is recommended that females aged 40 and older get annual mammograms to check for signs of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society breast cancer affects about 1 in 8 females; This makes accurate imaging critical, and The American Society of Breast Surgeons recommend that women who need mammograms consider 3D imaging. The 3D technology may be particularly helpful for some patients, such as those with dense breast tissue, which can make it difficult to detect abnormalities with a traditional 2D mammogram.

Schedule Your 3D Mammogram!

Early detection is the best defense. 3D Mammography is a fast, accurate, and FDA approved method of screening breast tissue and is important for early detection of invasive cancers before symptoms or warning signs appear. Invision Diagnostics are driven to defeat breast cancer and offer mobile 3D mammography. Contact us today to schedule your 3D mammogram!

Sources:

Breastcancer.org. 3D Mammograms More Effective Than 2D Mammograms In Women 65 And Older. www.breastcancer.org/research-news/3d-mammos-better-than-2d-for-65-and-up. Accessed September 17 2020.

Brown, K. Digital Mammography: Johns Hopkins Breast Center. Hopkinsmedicine.org. www.hopkinsmedicine.org/breast_center/treatments_services/breast_cancer_screening/digital_mammography. Accessed September 17 2020.

Stanfordhealthcare.org. Digital Mammography. www.stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-tests/m/mammogram/digital-mammography.html#:~:text=Digital%2520mammography%252C%2520also%2520called%2520full,those%2520found%2520in%2520digital%2520camerasAccessed September 17 2020