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Mammography remains the gold standard in breast cancer screening and diagnosis. In recent years, more detailed imaging has improved test accuracy and patient comfort, giving women and their healthcare providers better information and peace of mind as well.
Let’s learn more about sharper Image 3D mammography and why it can be a wise choice for you.
What Are the Advantages of 3D Mammography?
As its name indicates, 3D mammography takes multiple images (up to 9) of the breast from various angles, creating a three-dimensional view. Conversely, traditional 2D mammography only captures two images. Less detail makes it more difficult for physicians to detect abnormalities or overlapping breast structures.
Sharper image technology used in 3D mammography produces high-resolution images with greater clarity and amazing detail. This improves early detection of breast abnormalities and reduces false-positive results.
False positives from mammograms require further investigation to confirm or negate potential breast disease. This causes patients added anxiety and concern, along with callbacks to the imaging facility for more testing.
Additional advantages of 3D mammography are:
- Vastly improved imaging results for patients who have very dense breast tissue.
- Digital technology with the delivery of 25 percent less radiation than traditional film-screen mammography.
- Earlier detection of breast tumors (a possible one to three years before the onset of any noticeable breast symptoms).
- Interior breast structures shown distinctly and individually with no overlap).
- Warmer and more comfortable breast compression for the patient
What Can You Expect During a 3D Mammogram?
The process of getting a sharper image 3D mammogram is similar to traditional 2D mammography. However, there are a few key differences you should know about.
As with any mammogram, you will undress from the waist up and wear a patient gown. The technician will position the breast onto the digital mammography platform.
This machine is equipped with two plates that compress the breast to capture accurate images. Unlike older mammography machines, the 3D machine has warm, soft cushions to ensure greater patient comfort during breast compression.
Next, instead of taking just two images, as in 2D mammography, the 3D machine rotates around the breast and takes multiple images from different angles. These images create a more comprehensive view of the breast tissue.
The entire 3D mammography process takes about 15 minutes and is relatively painless. You may feel some pressure or discomfort as the breasts are compressed between the plates. However, this only lasts for a few seconds per image. Be sure to stay still and follow the technician’s instructions during the imaging process.
After the images are taken, they will be reviewed by a radiologist who specializes in breast imaging. The results are sent to your regular healthcare provider for further evaluation.
When Should Women Get Breast Cancer Screening with 3D Mammography?
The American Cancer Society recommends that women between the ages of 45 and 54 get screened yearly. Women 55 and older may get their mammograms every two years. Keep getting mammograms as long as you are in good health and are expected to live 10 years or more.
Additionally, 3D mammography and breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) benefit women with the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. Healthcare providers consider these patients to be at higher risk for the development of breast cancer than the general population.
All in all, breast cancer screening with 3D mammography is a fast and easy way to know that you are healthy. Plus, if there is a problem, this accurate test gives your healthcare provider important information to develop a care plan as early as possible when cancer is more easily treated.
3D Mammography in Wooster, OH
At the Women’s Specialty Center of the Main Campus of Wooster Community Hospital, our dedicated team of radiologists, technicians, and other providers deliver the finest in 3D mammography screening. We look forward to seeing you in our facility soon for your breast cancer screening.
To learn more about this important diagnostic test or to arrange your mammography appointment, call us today at (330) 263-8660. As with all our services, our Women’s Specialty Center care is medically accurate, comprehensive, and compassionate. We look forward to seeing you soon!
