What is a diagnostic mammogram with tomosynthesis?
Tomosynthesis is an imaging, or X-ray, technique that can be used to screen for early signs of breast cancer in people with no symptoms. This type of imaging can also be used as a diagnostic tool for people who are having breast cancer symptoms. Tomosynthesis is an advanced type of mammography.
What is breast tomosynthesis?
A 3D mammogram (breast tomosynthesis) is an imaging test that combines multiple breast X-rays to create a three-dimensional picture of the breast. A 3D mammogram is used to look for breast cancer in people who have no signs or symptoms.
Should I get a tomosynthesis instead of just a mammogram?
With a few exceptions, the overwhelming answer is… YES! 3D mammography, or digital breast tomosynthesis, has been shown by many research studies to improve the results of mammography when compared to usual 2D digital mammography.
Is tomosynthesis the same as 3D mammogram?
Tomosynthesis or “3D” mammography is a new type of digital x-ray mammogram which creates 2D and 3D-like pictures of the breasts. This tool improves the ability of mammography to detect early breast cancers, and decreases the number of women “called back” for additional tests for findings that are not cancers.
When to use tomosynthesis for breast cancer screening?
Tomosynthesis is most helpful in screening for breast cancer in women with dense breasts. Tomosynthesis is still a relatively new procedure, so it’s not available at all locations that use mammography. Be sure to ask your doctor or mammography clinic if this imaging option is available for you.
How does digital breast tomosynthesis ( DBT ) work?
Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) mammography (also referred to as “3D” mammography) is a type of mammogram which has gained widespread use in the last several years. It is an imaging test that uses x-rays to take multiple pictures of the breast. The breast is compressed as it would be for a standard mammogram.
What kind of images are taken during tomosynthesis?
During tomosynthesis, multiple images of the breast are taken. These images are sent to a computer that uses an algorithm to combine them into a 3-D image of the entire breast. Other names for tomosynthesis include:
How much does it cost for a mammogram with tomosynthesis?
More recent research suggests that tomosynthesis may cost less than 2-D mammography in some cases. looking at Blue Cross Blue Shield customers in their 40s found that initial breast cancer screening and follow-up tests cost an average of $353 a year. That included $125 for a 2-D screening mammogram and $124 for a screening with tomosynthesis.