Any woman who needs breast screening should consider 3-D mammography. Women with dense breast tissue or those at high risk for developing breast cancer may especially benefit because it provides a clearer picture.

Conventional mammography takes images of the breasts from only two angles, a side-to-side view and a top-to-bottom view. In contrast, the 3D scanner moves in an arc over the breasts, taking 25 images from various angles. Women notice little difference between 3-D mammography and traditional screenings, yet doctors’ ability to spot small tumors and reduce false scares is greatly improved.

Images are displayed as a series of thin slices that can be viewed by radiologists as individual images or in a dynamic interactive animation. Fine details are more visible and are less likely to be hidden by overlapping tissue.

Regular mammograms are important because they often can detect potential problems before they can be felt. And, early detection greatly increases treatment options and the likelihood of successful recovery. The improved clarity and accuracy of 3-D mammography is just an added peace of mind.

If you’re due for your regular screening, ask your doctor about scheduling a 3-D mammogram at GRMC.