Comparison of 2D and 3D mammogram images
As Breast Cancer Awareness month comes to a close, Women’s Care is announcing that we will be soon providing in-office 3D Mammography (also called digital breast tomosynthesis or DBT) in our Saratoga Springs office!
The coordinated and widespread utilization of screening mammography has helped reduce cancer mortality by 50%. While differences of opinion may exist on the optimal ages to implement screening, all of the major medical societies and Women’s Health advocacy groups agree that breast cancer screening, including regular mammograms are a critical component of Women’s Health. By adding 3D mammography to our Saratoga office, our patients have easy access to state of the art screening mammography.
What is 3D-Mammography?
Breast tomosynthesis/3D mammography uses computer algorithms to generate digital images of the breast in very thin slices. Therefore radiologists view the breast “slice by slice”, comprising a 3D mammogram. Viewing your breast “slice by slice” helps radiologists see fine details often obscured by overlapping tissues in conventional mammography. This allows better visualization of suspicious findings including the size, shape and location. Studies have shown this technology can result in a 40% increase in the detection of invasive breast cancers. Importantly, the better discrimination and visualization also decreases callbacks and false positives.
Many larger facilities restrict access to 3D mammography to women with previously identified dense breast tissue, suspicious findings, or high risk. However, all women can potentially benefit from this enhanced technology. At Women’s Care, we are making this technology available to all of our patients, as part of their routine screening. Our patients can schedule a 3-D (or conventional 2D) mammogram in conjunction with their annual visit, or schedule a stand-alone appointment, by calling our Saratoga Office. We are anticipating conventional mammography availability in early December and 3D mammography availability in early January 2017!
