To the patient, 3-D mammography takes the same amount of time and exposes
them to the same low-dose of radiation as the latest versions of traditional
mammography, but the outcome of the exam itself is significantly improved.
Produces up to 100 images of each breast compared to two with traditional
mammography
Significantly improves the ability to detect abnormalities or breast masses
Enhances the ability to localize and characterize those masses when found
Decreases the overlap of normal structures, reducing the number of call-backs
or false positives
In the example to the left, the conventional magnification view indicates
increasing indistinct linear calcifications in the superior left breast.
They appeared suspicious, and a biopsy would have been recommended. However,
the 3-D mammography views demonstrate that these were benign vascular
calcifications—so no biopsy was needed.
If you are premenopausal, have dense breasts or have increased risks of
breast cancer, ask your physician if 3-D mammography is right for you.
