3D Digital Mammography

The breast health specialists at Saint Vincent Medical Group provide 3D digital mammography in Worcester, Massachusetts and the surrounding areas. This advanced type of mammography provides the best chance for an early and accurate diagnosis by more precisely identifying and classifying breast tissue structures compared with traditional methods of mammography.

A 3D mammogram, or breast tomosynthesis, uses high-powered computing to convert digital breast images into a stack of very thin layers, or “slices,” to create a three-dimensional mammogram. During a 3D mammography procedure, the X-ray moves in an arc over the breast, taking multiple images from different angles. The radiologist can then use these images to see through layers of tissue and examine areas of concern from all angles. By having a better and more thorough view of the breast tissue, detection of present breast cancer increase and the chance of seeing something that really is not a cancer decreases.

Advantages of 3D mammography include earlier detection of small breast cancers that may be hidden during traditional mammography, better accuracy in pinpointing the size, shape, and location of breast abnormalities, fewer unnecessary biopsies or additional tests, a better likelihood of detecting multiple breast tumors, and a clearer image of dense breast tissue.

This imaging procedure is considered very safe. The dose of radiation is lower than the acceptable limits defined by the FDA. The average person is exposed to more radiation each year just by being outdoors.

Saint Vincent Medical Group uses 3D digital mammography to thoroughly screen patients, whether they have signs of breast cancer or not. It is also useful for patietns with dense breast tissue. Contact us today by calling (833) 609-6707.