3D Mammography, clinically known as, Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT), is a new cutting edge technology that uses low dose x-rays at multiple angles to acquire information that can create a 3D image of the breast. Capturing the additional 3D images only adds a few seconds to the exam time. This exciting technology has been shown to lower the need for additional mammogram images and can increase the sensitivity for detecting early breast cancers, especially in patients with dense breasts.
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, significantly improving early breast cancer detection and providing the confidence to reduce the need for follow-up imaging by up to 40%.