Being called back for a second look after a suspicious mammogram can be terrifying. However, overlapping tissue in a standard mammogram can look like an area of concern that requires further investigation, so repeat mammograms to rule out cancer are a common occurrence.
A new technology called digital breast tomosynthesis, or 3D mammography, promises to reduce the number of anxiety-inducing callbacks while improving diagnosis of invasive cancer by 40 percent.
The technology takes a series of low-radiation X-ray images in 1-millimeter slices, then sophisticated software assembles them into a 3D image that provides a high level of clarity and detail. It’s done at the same time as a standard 2D mammogram on the same equipment, and takes just seconds longer.
IS IT TIME FOR YOUR SCREENING?
3D mammography is currently available at the UHS Breast Center in Vestal. Call 240-2847 to make an appointment.
