There are pros and cons to 3D mammograms used for breast cancer screening when compared to traditional 2D mammograms.
What Is 3D Mammography and How Does It Work?
DBT is similar tocomputed tomography (CT)in that both composite multiple X-ray images.
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But DBT requires far fewer X-ray beams and exposes you to far less radiation.
Because of these shortcomings, most health authorities recommend the combination of DBT and FFDM for screening purposes.
Not all facilities offer 3D mammography, so check with the center before booking.
Where Are 3D Mammograms Available?
3D mammograms take around 10 minutes to perform, not including waiting times.
This is more or less the same time you would expect with a 2D mammogram.
During the procedure, you will be asked to stand in front of the mammography machine.
A plastic plate will then press your breast against the platform.
Once your breast is in place, the technician will turn on the machine.
It will move from side to side in an arc to take multiple pictures of your breast.
You may be asked to hold your breath.
After the first round of pictures is taken, a second round may be taken from a different angle.
For this, your breast may be repositioned on the plate.
Once the first breast has been imaged, the procedure will be repeated with the second breast.
Mammogram results usually come back within two weeks, although 3D mammograms may take slightly longer.
This would include aBI-RADS numberif an abnormality is found.
The number indicates the likelihood that a finding is cancerous.
With a BI-RADS score over 3, you may be referred for abiopsy.
The report will also include information about your breast density.
Whether FFDM or combination DBT/FFDM is used, the same mammogram screening guidelines apply.
Thereafter, screening recommendations would remain the same as for cisgender women.
Summary
3D mammography has pros and cons.
3D mammograms are standardly performed with 2D mammograms to improve the accuracy of breast cancer screening.
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