A 3D mammogram uses X-rays to create an image of the breast tissue. The procedure is similar to that of a conventional mammogram, but it provides a clearer picture of the breast tissue.
A 3D mammogram, or digital tomosynthesis, differs from a standard mammogram, which offers a 2D picture.
A 3D mammogram helps doctors screen thoroughly for breast cancer, including in people with no noticeable signs or symptoms of the disease. This technique may be particularly important for certain individuals, such as those with dense breast tissue.
The use of binary terms such as “male” and “female” or “men” and “women” in this article reflects the language of the sources we’ve used. Unless otherwise noted, it’s unclear whether the research we reference included participants with expansive gender identities.
Accurate imaging is critical, as breast cancer is
A 3D mammogram procedure is similar to a traditional mammogram. Mammograms are imaging tests that healthcare professionals use to check for any breast diseases, such as breast cancer.
A standard 2D mammogram creates a flat image of the breast, while a 3D mammogram produces a three-dimensional image.
The mammogram machine sends small X-ray signals through the breast tissue from different angles. It then compiles all the images into one 3D image.
The final 3D picture gives a complete, detailed impression of the breast. Doctors can use this to detect signs of any atypical growths or cancer.
Doctors may recommend 3D mammograms to investigate growths that may characterize cancer or help identify the reason for any symptoms a person is experiencing.
A 3D mammogram may give doctors and individuals more confidence and certainty in their diagnosis and any necessary follow-ups.
Traditional 2D mammograms are currently the industry standard for imaging breast tissue and one of the best screening methods for breast cancer.
During a 2D mammogram, the technician will compress the breast tissue to make it as uniform as possible. The machine then creates simple X-ray images of the tissue, from the sides and top to bottom.
In a 3D mammogram, the process is similar, except that the technician takes multiple X-rays of the breast from many different angles. They then compile these images to create a complete digital representation of the breast.
The process allows doctors to look at small, individual sections of the breast tissue. This level of detail may help specialists detect some forms of atypical growth in the tissue more accurately.
A 3D mammogram can help doctors detect and diagnose disease by screening breast tissue for possible abnormalities, whether or not a person has symptoms.
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People may require a 3D mammogram as a screening or diagnostic test for breast disease. A screening mammogram helps with the early detection of breast cancer when there are no symptoms.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all women over the age of 40 undergo annual breast cancer screening. However, screening recommendations vary among organizations, and some may recommend earlier screening.
Dense breast tissue
A 3D mammogram can be especially useful for those with dense breast tissue. Dense breast tissue may make images from 2D mammograms more cloudy or unclear.
Malignancies and signs of tumors appear dense and white on an X-ray image. Dense breast tissue can also appear white, which may obscure signs of unusual growth.
As 3D mammograms use many images of various layers of tissue, doctors may find it easier to detect atypical growths even in dense breast tissue.
Doctors may recommend that individuals avoid scheduling their appointment for the week before menstruation, as breast tissue may be less tender at this time.
People may also need to avoid wearing perfumes or deodorants on the day of their mammogram, as some of these products may interfere with the procedure.
Before the scan, people should inform the healthcare professional of any medications or hormones they are taking. They should also advise of any previous surgeries or possible pregnancy.
The 3D mammogram procedure is similar to a standard mammogram. The technician will ask the person to remove their shirt, bra, and any jewelry and change into a temporary garment.
The technician will place the person’s breast on one compression plate of the machine, using a second plate to flatten the breast tissue to create a uniform thickness throughout.
The imaging arm of a 3D mammogram machine moves in an arc over the breast, taking many X-rays from different angles. A computer then processes the images to form a clear 3D image.
The whole procedure may take around 30 minutes. People may experience temporary discomfort from the pressure on the breasts when they are under the compression plate.
Radiologists will scan the images, looking for signs of atypical growth, lumps in the breast tissue, or calcifications, which are deposits of calcium. They interpret the results before sending them to the person’s doctor.
The testing facility will let a person know when their results are available, and they can make an appointment with their doctor to discuss the results. If the mammogram indicates a potential health issue, people may require further examinations.
Next steps after unexpected results
If a mammogram shows an atypical result, people may need further examinations to diagnose the issue. However, atypical results
Doctors may need to examine a specific area in more detail or examine any cysts, masses, or calcifications.
Healthcare professionals will need to analyze any unusual signs in the breast tissue to check if they are noncancerous or could indicate breast cancer. A follow-up examination may include one or more of the following:
- another mammogram
- ultrasound
- MRI scan
If the results show nothing of any concern, people may not need further testing until their next routine checkup, which is usually every one to two years.
If further testing shows any atypical indications, people may require a biopsy to confirm the findings. A biopsy is a tissue sample that doctors study under a microscope to check for cancerous cells.
If someone fits the criteria for breast screening or has unusual breast symptoms, they can talk with a doctor about having a 3D mammogram.
The cost of a 3D mammogram may vary from state to state. It can depend on insurance coverage and whether the test is for screening or diagnosis. For example, Medicare Part B insurance covers the following:
- one baseline mammogram for females ages 35 to 39 years
- an annual screening mammogram for females ages 40 and above
- as many diagnostic mammograms as medically necessary
People who qualify for original Medicare pay nothing for a screening mammogram if an approved healthcare provider accepts the payment from Medicare.
For a diagnostic mammogram, they would need to pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount and any deductible Part B amount.
Not all healthcare facilities offer 3D mammography. People can speak with a doctor about their closest facility and find out from their insurance providers about any costs they may cover.
For those without insurance
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People may be eligible for support if they:
- have no insurance
- have insurance that does not include breast screening tests
- have an annual income at or below 250% of the federal poverty level
- are female and between 40 and 64 years of age, although others outside of this age bracket may also be eligible for screening services
There is minimal risk from a 3D mammogram, and the benefits typically outweigh any risks.
The radiation dose for a 3D mammogram can vary but may be slightly higher than a 2D mammogram. However, these dosages are still within Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved safety levels.
Mammograms may also produce a false-positive result, meaning they can show an abnormality when there is no disease present. Despite this, 3D mammography for screening and diagnosis reduces the chance of false-positive results.
No imaging tests are perfect, and there is always a chance that a mammogram will fail to detect disease, particularly in areas that are difficult to capture. This is called a false-negative result.
Additionally, all forms of mammograms may be uncomfortable. That said, 3D mammograms may cause less discomfort as they use minimal pressure to keep the breast in place during the test.
The process of a 3D mammogram is similar to that of a standard mammogram, but it offers a more complete image of the breast tissue than 2D mammograms. This makes it easier to see unexpected growths and other issues in the breast.
These screenings are especially important for those with dense breast tissue, which can make it harder to see tumors.
Health insurance usually provides partial or full coverage for diagnostic 3D mammograms. People can check their insurance provider’s terms and conditions to find their coverage level.