3D Mammography is a New Screening and Diagnostic Tool

Tomosynthesis MachineTomosynthesis (also know as 3D mammography) is a revolutionary screening and diagnostic tool designed for early detection of breast cancer that can be done in conjunction with a traditional 2D digital mammogram. Approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2011, it is becoming more common in the U.S. During the 3D portion of the exam, the X-ray arm — which uses a comparable radiation dose to a traditional mammogram — sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple images in a matter of seconds. A computer then produces a 3D image of the breast tissue in one millimeter slices, providing greater visibility for the radiologist to see tissue details — potentially providing greater accuracy, earlier breast cancer detection, and a decrease in biopsies and recall rates.

Hologic makes the only equipment approved by the FDA. General Electric and Siemens market tomosynthesis equipment overseas and expect to introduce it in the U.S. It is estimated that more than six million American women will undergo tomosynthesis this year.