Locations:
SearchAdvertisement
The short answer from a radiologist
A: Yes and yes, with some exceptions. Three-dimensional (3D) mammograms can be used for routine screening mammography. They are gaining popularity and are widely covered by most insurance providers, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Many research studies show that 3D mammography — technically called digital breast tomosynthesis — offers better results than conventional 2D mammography. It may be particularly effective for women with dense breast tissue or who are at high risk for breast cancer.
3D mammograms can better pick up invasive cancers and avoid the false alarms common with 2D mammography, particularly when breast tissue is dense.
Both 2D and 3D mammograms use X-rays to create detailed images of your breast, in order to detect masses or other abnormalities.
But in 3D mammography, an X-ray tube moves in an arc around each breast, capturing multiple imaging “slices” at different angles. These images are sent to a computer and reconstructed, to create a 3D model of your breast tissue in 1-millimeter slices that the radiologist reviews.
For women, the comfort level for 3D mammograms is similar to that of 2D mammograms. After positioning your breast tissue, a technician gently compresses it between a plate and a comfort paddle. The gradual, even compression creates a sense of pressure.
The radiation dose for a 3D mammogram (breast tomosynthesis) is slightly higher than the dose used for standard mammography but falls within U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved safety levels for mammography radiation. (Some 3D systems use doses similar to conventional mammography.)
Advertisement
Anyone who’s who is interested in having 3D mammography should check with their healthcare provider to see if it makes sense for them ― as well as their insurer, to confirm that it’s covered in their state. Some states mandate that insurers cover 3D mammograms, while others may not.
— Diagnostic radiology specialist Laura Dean, MD.
Advertisement
Learn more about our editorial process.
Advertisement
Artificial intelligence and machine learning are being integrated into chatbots, patient rooms, diagnostic testing, research studies and more — all to improve innovation, discovery and patient care
Bacterial infections, breast abscesses and clogged milk ducts can all cause inflammation in your breasts
Tackle perspiration and odor by wearing breathable fabrics, showering after exercising and using an absorbent powder
HER2-low is less aggressive than HER2-positive and HER2-negative, but the new designation allows for targeted therapies that may be helpful
Taking care of yourself extends beyond symptom management and includes things like passion projects and meaningful moments
Support groups, financial assistance and survivorship programs are all readily available
It depends on factors like the stage of the cancer, your age and other risks
Receiving this diagnosis can be scary, but there are ways to manage symptoms and reduce stress
Focus on your body’s metabolic set point by eating healthy foods, making exercise a part of your routine and reducing stress
PFAS chemicals may make life easier — but they aren’t always so easy on the human body
While there’s little risk in trying this hair care treatment, there isn’t much science to back up the claims
