3D Mammograms (Detects 2-7 cancers for every 1000 women screened)

3D Mammograms allow detection of 2-7 cancers for every 1000 women screened.  A Woman's breast degree of density is determined through her mammogram, which is typically rated on a 4-level scale. For women age 40 and older, a mammogram is recommended as a vital step in breast cancer screening. Of course for women that are pregnant, mammograms are not recommended during that time. In cases for women who have been diagnosed with high risk, starting mammographic screening could begin as early as age 30.  Keeping with medical recommendations, and monthly breast exams, most abnormalities can be detected and removed successfully, prolonging life and health.

There are several types of Mammography:

Film, 2-Dimensional, known as “Analog" is a procedure that uses x-rays to take pictures of the inside of the breast. The pictures are usually taken from two different angles, and a computer or x-ray film is used to make 2-D pictures of the breast. 2-dimensional mammography is also used to check for other changes in the breast, such as abnormal lumps, cysts, or calcifications (calcium deposits). Also called 2-D mammography.

Digital, 2-Dimensional, known as “Full Field Digital Mammogram” (FFDM), uses a dedicated electronic detector system to computerize and display the x-ray information using a mammography system in which the x-ray film is replaced by electronics that convert x-rays into mammographic pictures of the breast. These systems are similar to those found in digital cameras and their efficiency enables better pictures with a lower radiation dose. These images of the breast are transferred to a computer for review by the radiologist and for long-term storage. The patient’s experience during a digital mammogram is similar to having a conventional film mammogram.

Tomosynthesis, also referred to as “3-Dimensional mammography” (3D mammography) or “Tomo”, uses a dedicated electronic detector system to obtain multiple projection images which are “Synthesized” by the computer to create thin slices of the breast.

Note Worthy -

All mammograms utilize x-ray technology and dense tissue “blocks” x-rays. This means tumors can be hidden by overlying dense tissue. The effect of breast density on a mammogram: A cancer masked on a 2D mammogram could still be masked on a 3D mammogram unless it is surrounded by fatty tissue. Standard mammography has been shown to miss about 50% of cancers present in women with dense breasts. The miss rate of tomosynthesis has not yet been fully established, but remains an issue in dense breasts. Further study is needed for the benefit of having tomosynthesis each year for women over age 40..