1.1 What is 3D mammography?
3D Mammography, also known as 3D Breast Tomosynthesis, is a cutting-edge breast imaging technique that was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2011. This scanning technology aids doctors in assessing the structure of the breast and diagnosing pathological changes within the breast.
Conventional 2D Mammography
During a conventional 2D mammography, the individual being examined is instructed to stand in front of the scanner with their upper body exposed. The plastic portions of the scanner are pressed firmly against each breast from top to bottom and side to side. X-ray images of the breast tissue are then captured. Two images are taken of each breast during the examination, and the individual may experience slight discomfort during the process.
Since conventional 2D mammography only captures two-dimensional images from two angles, the resulting images may be less clear due to the overlapping of breast tissues, thereby reducing the accuracy and sensitivity of the scan.
3D Mammography
In contrast to conventional 2D mammography, 3D mammography scans the breast from multiple angles simultaneously. This allows for the generation of multiple low-dose breast imaging images, which can be reconstructed into a complete set of three-dimensional breast images using computer software.
The 3D mammography technique assists doctors in detecting early pathological changes in the breast, such as breast fibroadenomas, breast cysts, and even early-stage breast tumors. Therefore, it is particularly suitable for breast screening purposes. Additionally, if any suspicious areas are identified during a conventional 2D mammography examination, the doctor may recommend a 3D mammography scan to provide more valuable information and assist in formulating a treatment plan.
1.2 Superiority of 3D mammography
3D Mammography provides superior and clearer breast images for clinical evaluation. Clinical data shows that compared to conventional 2D mammography, this scanning examination can detect approximately 41% more invasive breast cancers and reduce false-positive detections of cancer by nearly 40%.
Furthermore, the latest generation of 3D mammography scanners has reduced the compression time of the breast to 3.7 seconds. Coupled with improved ergonomic design, this significantly reduces discomfort for the individual undergoing the scan. The significant reduction in scan time also means that the radiation dose received by the individual during the scan is greatly reduced, thereby lowering their radiation risk.
The latest 3D mammography scanners can also serve as a guidance tool for performing biopsy procedures. When abnormalities are detected within the breast during the scan, the doctor can arrange for the patient to undergo a vacuum-assisted biopsy or excision guided by the 3D images, for pathological examination purposes.
1.3 How is 3D mammograhy examination performed?
During the examination, you will need to remove your upper clothing and stand bare-chested in front of the scanning machine. Throughout the entire procedure, a female radiographer will accompany you and provide instructions.
The radiographer will instruct you to place your breast on the plastic tray of the scanner. The plastic component on the other side of the scanner will slowly move downward, compressing the breast into a flattened shape for about 3.7 seconds. During the examination, you may experience mild discomfort and uneasiness. Afterwards, the radiographer will instruct you to place the other breast on the scanner in the same manner.
The entire scanning procedure takes approximately twenty minutes, and the obtained mammography images will be analyzed and reported by a specialized radiologist. The scan results are typically available within 24 hours after the examination.
1.4 When would I need a 3D mammography examination?
Breast Screening
The purpose of breast screening is to perform breast examinations on women without clinical symptoms in order to detect early precancerous lesions/carcinoma in situ and facilitate early treatment. Currently, international guidelines recommend that women who reach the age of 40 should undergo breast screening every two years to ensure there are no suspicious precancerous lesions/carcinoma in situ in the breasts. Sufficient medical research data supports the effectiveness of breast screening in reducing the incidence and mortality rate of breast cancer. Therefore, doctors advise individuals who reach the age of 40 to undergo breast screening as a preventive measure against breast cancer.
Women with Clinical Symptoms
If you have already noticed clinical symptoms such as lumps in the breast or nipple discharge, it is important to seek medical attention early. Mammography (2D and 3D) and ultrasound examinations are crucial diagnostic tools to assess breast diseases. Breast cancer is not an incurable condition. With timely diagnosis, early-stage breast cancer can be effectively treated and cured.
1.5 Tips for examination
- Please bring any relevant reports, scan films, and CDs related to your breast medical history for the reference and comparison of the radiologist.
- When undergoing the examination, please inform the radiographer clearly about your breast medical history.
- Avoid scheduling a mammography examination during the week before or during your menstrual period, as breast swelling may affect the accuracy of the scan results. Additionally, the compression process during the examination may cause some discomfort.
- Please wear loose-fitting clothing, and a two-piece outfit, such as a shirt and pants, would be more suitable.
- On the day of the examination, refrain from applying deodorant or perfume, as these products may appear as white spots on the mammography images.