3D Digital Mammograms at University Radiology Group

3D Mammography Overview

Digital mammography, also known as full-field digital mammography or digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), is a specialized X-ray study of the breasts. It combines 3D and traditional 2D imaging to build a finely detailed 3D reconstruction of breast tissue. Radiology physicians can then scroll through all the images much like a book – one page at a time – to gain a better understanding of your breast health.

3D mammography is used for both breast cancer screenings and as a diagnostic tool. Because it recreates three-dimensional images of the breast tissue, digital mammograms can often detect cancerous tumors before they can be felt. This makes digital mammography particularly valuable as a screening tool in the early detection of breast cancer.

The test is FDA approved and recommended for patients in all risk categories.

2D vs. 3D Mammography

Sometimes breast tissue can overlap. When viewed only with conventional 2D mammography, overlapping areas may look like abnormalities. This can lead to a false positive result that requires patients to get additional testing, increases their healthcare costs, and creates unnecessary anxiety.

Examining multiple images with 2D and 3D techniques allows radiologists to view tissue more clearly, making it easier to make an accurate assessment. Additionally, the 3D images make it possible to identify cancers at earlier stages when they are most treatable.

Who Needs a Digital Mammogram?

The American Cancer Society recommends that women with average risk of breast cancer begin getting annual mammograms at the age of 40. Women with an elevated risk of breast cancer should get screening mammography starting at 30 years old. These risks include:

Family history of breast cancer
Mutation of the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
An immediate family member with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
Previous radiation therapy of the chest
Other genetic conditions such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome

In some high-risk cases, a breast MRI is recommended in addition to a mammogram.

Artificial Intelligence + Expert Breast Imaging

University Radiology combines the expertise of our specialized breast radiologists with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology to provide an additional level of analysis when interpreting mammograms. AI works alongside our radiologists as an additional set of eyes, analyzing breast images and highlighting areas that may warrant closer evaluation. This technology can help radiologists identify subtle findings while supporting consistent, accurate interpretation.

AI does not replace the radiologist — the final interpretation is always made by a physician. Together with 3D mammography, AI provides another powerful tool in our commitment to the early detection of breast cancer.

Transpara Breast AI: Enhanced Breast Cancer Screening

We offer Transpara^® from ScreenPoint Medical to assist our radiologists with the reading of your mammography exams. Transpara provides our radiologists with a “second pair of eyes” through artificial intelligence to help detect breast cancer.

Transpara has analyzed over 10 million mammograms across the globe and has been the focus of more than 40 peer-reviewed studies. It has been proven to help detect more cancers and find cancer earlier, which means it may be more easily treated.

We use Transpara as part of our commitment to offering you the highest quality of care.

Visit transparabreastcare.com to learn more.

Preparing for a 3D Mammogram

There is no special preparation for a digital mammography exam. However, patients should not use any powders, creams or deodorant under the arms or around the breast area before the exam.

As part of the complete exam, current films are always compared with prior studies. Patients should bring any prior mammogram studies with them for their appointment. Please note that it is very important that all mammograms are returned to us so that the patient has a complete history file.

Experience in Breast Imaging

University Radiology’s specialized breast imaging team acquires and interprets approximately 120,000 mammography exams each year, providing extensive experience in both screening and diagnostic breast imaging.

When a biopsy is needed, our team offers multiple image-guided options to help ensure the procedure is tailored to each patient’s specific findings and needs. Last year, University Radiology performed approximately 3,000 breast biopsy procedures across 10 biopsy locations, including stereotactic, ultrasound-guided and MRI-guided breast biopsies.

What to Expect During a Mammography Exam

Digital mammograms use similar equipment to traditional 2D mammograms. When you get to your mammography appointment, you’ll first change into a medical gown. A radiology technician will then bring you to an X-ray room with a mammography machine. The technician will position your breasts on a support plate and lower a second plate down to compress the breast tissue. Then they’ll go into an adjoining room, from which they can operate the X-ray machine.

During 3D image acquisition, the X-ray arm will move in an arc over the breast, taking multiple X-ray images over the course of a few seconds. The technologist will view the images to ensure they are of the highest quality. The exam usually takes less than 15 minutes.

All of our offices are equipped with the latest digital mammography equipment. Schedule your digital mammogram today by filling out an online form or calling us at (732) 390-0033.

Mammogram Exam Results

Routine screening digital mammograms are interpreted by Digital Mammography Specialists at University Radiology. If additional views are needed to make the diagnosis, our office will contact you to return for specialized spot or magnification views.

If no additional images are needed, the radiologist will send a detailed report to your referring physician. Your doctor will call or schedule an appointment to discuss the results with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some women find the compression required for a mammogram uncomfortable. Women with dense breast tissue or small breasts often report more discomfort, as firmer compression may be needed to provide accurate breast imaging. It’s important to remember that the compression is completely safe and will not damage your breast tissue. Any discomfort from the procedure is temporary and can be managed with oral pain medication. Scheduling your mammogram in the first 14 days after your period may result in a more comfortable experience.

Digital mammograms, 3D mammography, and digital breast tomosynthesis all refer to the same imaging test.

With the more advanced, lower dose C-ViewTM software, the radiation exposure required for the 2D together with the 3D exam is now about the same as with a traditional 2D mammogram alone.

A screening mammogram is a routine evaluation of the breast tissue. A diagnostic mammogram focuses on a concerning area of the breast or is used to evaluate a symptom or complaint. 2D and 3D mammography can be used together in both cases.

Many insurance companies cover 3D mammograms, but it’s best to check with your insurance provider to ensure coverage and understand your health care policy.

For more information about 3D Digital Mammograms at University Radiology Group, or to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists, please contact us.