2D-3D Mammograms
What is a 2D-3D Mammogram?
3D mammography, also known as tomosynthesis, takes multiple low dose X-ray images at various levels of the breast.
These images are obtained by an X-ray tube that moves in an arc over the breast and takes multiple pictures from many different angles. A computer combines these images to generate a three-dimensional picture of the breast. This type of mammogram uses a computer to create both 2D and 3D images of the breast. This technology has been shown to improve the sensitivity and accuracy of a screening mammogram. The key advantage of this type of mammogram is that it allows the radiologist to see structures in the breast that may not have been seen due to overlapping breast tissue. This type of mammogram is especially useful for women with dense breasts. Several studies have found that 3D mammograms detect 41% more cancers than traditional 2D mammograms. 3D mammograms also use 30% less radiation and reduce the number of false positive screening results. Because the 2D-3D mammogram is the most sensitive mammogram available, this is the only type of mammogram offered at CDI.
Why Did My Doctor Order a Mammogram?
Most mammograms are ordered as an annual screening for breast cancer. This is called a screening mammogram. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women over 40 and at average risk of breast cancer have an annual screening mammogram. The average risk of a woman developing breast cancer in her life is 13%. This means that 1 in 8 women will have a breast cancer. The ACS may recommend women who have a high risk of breast cancer begin annual screening mammograms and breast MRI at an earlier age. High risk is determined by a family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations, an abnormal breast biopsy or dense breasts. It is not required to have a doctor’s order to obtain a screening mammogram for women 40 years of age or older.
Doctors also order diagnostic mammograms. These scans are ordered if the patient is experiencing symptoms or at the recommendation of the radiologist after a screening mammogram. These scans are used to evaluate something that looked suspicious to the radiologist on a screening mammogram. If the areas continue to look suspicious, the radiologist may recommend that a biopsy be performed.
What Should I Expect?
When you arrive, a technologist will ask you questions about areas of your breast that are concerning to you or where you have noticed a change. You will be asked to change into a special cape that is used for mammography exams. You will be asked to use wipes in the changing room to remove underarm deodorant. Deodorant will be provided for use after the scan. You will be provided with a private changing room where you can leave all personal items. The technologist will give you a key to this room. You can secure all personal items in this space.
Low Dose Radiation
Slight Discomfort
How Long Will It Take?
A screening mammogram usually is completed in about 20 minutes. Diagnostic mammograms typically take 30 minutes.
How Will I Get the Results?
After your scan, a board-certified radiologist will read the images produced from the scan. The radiologist will prepare a report that will be sent to your doctor. Your doctor’s office will contact you with the results.
You Get to Choose
Switching your imaging to CDI is simple and will almost always mean less out-of-pocket costs to you. Choose whichever method you prefer:
For Physicians
CDI offers the following scans.
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Screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms. All mammograms at CDI include tomosynthesis and there is no additional out-of-pocket charge to the patient.
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Patients can be referred for diagnostic mammograms or biopsies even if the screening mammogram was performed at another facility.
Because CDI is a small facility, our negotiated allowable rate for third party payors is less than big box facilities.
This means the out-of-pocket percentage required by the patient is much less.
Contact Us
The friendly, professional CDI staff is here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns or help transferring imaging orders to us. We’ll make it easy.