3D TOMOSYNTHESIS MAMMOGRAPHY DEVICE

What is 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography and What is it Used for?

3D tomosynthesis mammography is an advanced digital mammography technique used to create three-dimensional images of breast tissue. This method allows for more accurate detection of breast cancer and other breast abnormalities. Unlike traditional two-dimensional mammography, 3D tomosynthesis allows thin-section images of breast tissue so doctors can examine the breast tissue layer by layer.

What is 3D Tomosynthesis Digital Mammography?

3D tomosynthesis digital mammography is an imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to create three-dimensional images of breast tissue. This method allows breast tissue to be viewed from different angles, which are then reconstructed using a computer into a three-dimensional reconstruction. As a result, more detailed and clear images are obtained.

Is 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography Different From Traditional Mammography?

Yes, 3D tomosynthesis mammography is different from traditional mammography. Traditional mammography provides two-dimensional images of breast tissue, and these images can overlap tissue, which can cause some abnormalities to be missed. 3D tomosynthesis, on the other hand, provides thin-section images of breast tissue, which helps detect abnormalities more clearly.

What is 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography Used For?

3D tomosynthesis mammography is used as a breast cancer screening test and is used to detect breast cancer in people who have no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. It can also be used to look for breast problems, such as a suspicious lump or thickening.
When used for breast cancer screening, a 3D mammography machine creates both 3D and standard 2D mammography images. Both types of images have some advantages in seeing certain breast abnormalities.
Combining 3D mammography with standard mammography allows:

• Reduces the need for follow-up imaging: When doctors detect abnormalities on standard mammogram images, they often recommend additional imaging. Being called back for additional imaging can be stressful, take extra time, and incur additional costs. Combining 3D mammography with standard mammography reduces the need for follow-up imaging.
• Detects slightly more cancers: Studies show that combining 3D mammography with standard mammography may lead to the detection of about one more breast cancer in 1,000 women than is detected when standard mammography alone is used.
• Improves breast cancer detection in dense breast tissue: 3D mammography offers advantages in detecting breast cancer in people with dense breast tissue because the 3D image allows doctors to see beyond dense areas.

Breast tissue is made up of mammary glands, milk ducts, supportive tissue (dense breast tissue), and fatty tissue. Dense breasts have more dense breast tissue than fatty tissue. Both dense breast tissue and cancers appear white on standard mammograms, which can make it difficult to detect breast cancer in dense breasts.
There is not enough evidence that 3D mammograms reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer more than standard mammograms, so most breast cancer screening guidelines do not state that women should choose 3D mammograms over standard mammograms.

Is 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography More Effective in Diagnosing Breast Cancer?

Yes, 3D tomosynthesis mammography may be more effective in diagnosing breast cancer. Because this method allows for a layer-by-layer examination of breast tissue, small tumors and abnormalities are more likely to be detected. Studies have shown that 3D tomosynthesis mammography increases cancer detection rates and reduces false-positive results.

Who is Suitable for 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography?

3D tomosynthesis mammography is generally suitable for all women. It can be recommended especially for women with dense breast tissue, those at high risk of breast cancer, and those who have previously been diagnosed with breast cancer. It can also be preferred in cases where clear results cannot be obtained with conventional mammography. However, there is still insufficient evidence that 3D mammograms can reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer more than standard mammography. For this reason, most breast cancer screening guidelines do not state that women should choose 3D mammography over standard mammography.

Does 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography Provide More Accurate Results?

Yes, 3D tomosynthesis mammography can provide more accurate results. This method allows for thin sections of breast tissue to be examined, allowing for clearer differences between tissues. This helps detect both cancerous and non-cancerous abnormalities more accurately.

Does 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography Reduce Unnecessary Biopsies?

Yes, 3D tomosynthesis mammography can reduce unnecessary biopsies. Because it provides more detailed and clear images of breast tissue, it allows doctors to more accurately evaluate suspicious lesions. This can help reduce false-positive results and unnecessary biopsies.

In Which Situations Is 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography Preferred?

3D tomosynthesis mammography is preferred especially in women with dense breast tissue, those at high risk of breast cancer, and those who have previously been diagnosed with breast cancer. In addition, this method can be used in cases where clear results cannot be obtained with traditional mammography.

How Long Does 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography Take?

A 3D tomosynthesis mammogram usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. This is similar to a traditional mammogram. However, because 3D tomosynthesis produces more images, the imaging time may be slightly longer.

Is 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography Painful?

3D tomosynthesis mammography, like traditional mammography, can be painful for some women because the breasts must be compressed. However, this compression usually lasts only a few seconds and the level of pain varies from person to person. Most women experience only mild discomfort during the procedure.

Is There Any Preparation Required for 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography?

There is usually no special preparation required for a 3D tomosynthesis mammogram. However, it is recommended that you do not use perfume, deodorant, or lotion before your appointment, as these products can affect the quality of the images. It may also be helpful to bring your previous mammogram results with you.