What is a 3D mammogram?
If you've had a mammogram before, it was likely a 2D mammogram, which takes just two X-ray images of your breasts. In comparison, 3D mammography creates a three-dimensional picture of the breast by taking several low-dose images from different angles around your breasts, allowing the radiologist to see your breast tissue more clearly.
A 3D mammogram is safe and approved by the FDA and superior to 2D mammogram for women, especially with dense breast tissue. The technology also offers numerous advantages over conventional 2D mammograms.
What are the benefits of a 3D mammogram?
Research suggests 3D mammography not only finds more invasive cancers than 2D mammograms but also reduces the number of false alarms.
Other advantages of 3D mammograms include:
- Reducing breast biopsy rates, which sometimes occur when a 2D mammogram shows a suspicious area that turns out to be harmless
- Finding small, invasive types of breast cancer, particularly in women younger than 50
- Detecting breast cancer in women with dense breast tissue, because the 3D image allows the radiologist to visualize more areas of the breast
In addition, research suggests 3D mammograms detect 20 to 65 percent more invasive breast cancers than 2D mammograms alone
What happens during a 3D mammogram?
Before your mammogram, you’ll be asked to refrain from wearing deodorant or lotion, which can interfere with imaging. When you arrive at the office, you’ll undress above the waist and put on a loose gown. Your mammogram takes place in a private room.
A technician positions you in front of the 3D machine, and positions each breast between plates. You hold your breath for just a second during the scan of your breasts.
This will be repeated a couple of times until the technician has taken a sufficient number of images. Usually, the process takes 10 minutes or so.
What does a mammogram show?
A mammogram can reveal very early breast cancer. It also shows a variety of findings
- Calcifications (minuscule specks of calcium, may signify cancer)
- Breast tissue distortion or mass (may signify breast cancer)
- Fibroadenoma (solid, growing mass, may cause breast pain)
After your 3D mammogram, Dr. Sanghavi discusses your mammogram results, along with any follow-up tests you may need.
To take advantage of the many benefits of a 3D mammogram, call Premal Sanghavi MD, Inc. or schedule an appointment online today.
