3D Mammography

Schedule Your Screening Mammogram

Mammograms use low-dose X-rays to examine the breasts and are commonly used to detect breast cancer and other breast changes.

Screening mammograms are performed on women who have no signs or symptoms of breast cancer, as a preventative measure. Diagnostic mammograms are conducted when there is a lump or other concerning sign or symptom –such as unusual breast pain, tenderness, sensitivity, or discharge – or if there is a history of breast cancer.

At WakeMed Imaging, 3D mammography is our standard of care for early detection of breast cancer. It combines multiple breast x-rays to create a 3D picture of the breast, allowing for clearer images and better detection of breast abnormalities, especially in dense breast tissue.

Who Should Get a Screening Mammogram?

The American Cancer Society recommends the following for women at average risk of breast cancer. A provider may recommend an earlier starting age for women with a family history of breast cancer. Early detection makes a critical difference, so starting routine screenings at the right time is essential.

Women between 40 to 44 have the option to start screening with a mammogram every year.
Women 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
Women 55 and older can switch to mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms. Screening should continue if a woman is in good health and is expected to live at least 10 more years.

Benefits of 3D Mammography

3D breast mammography (also known as breast tomosynthesis) combines multiple breast X-rays to create a three-dimensional picture of the breast. It is the most modern screening and diagnostic tool available for early detection of breast cancer. 3D mammogram machines can quickly create 3D images in one-millimeter slices, as well as standard 2D mammogram images.

3D renderings of breast tissue provide greater visibility for the radiologist and more details about the breast tissue. By combining 3D imaging with standard mammograms, we can reduce the need for follow-up imaging, detect more cancers than 2D screenings, have greater clarity through denser breast tissue and reduce the rate of false positive readings.

PODCAST

WakeMed Voices Podcast explores a variety of health and wellness-focused topics. Hear the answers to your most common questions about mammograms – from when to start getting them to what the results really mean.

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What to Expect

Before The Screening

Check with your insurance provider before your screening so that you'll know what costs to expect.
Schedule the screening for a time when your breasts are least likely to be tender. If you haven't gone through menopause, that's usually during the week after your menstrual period.
Bring any prior mammogram images if you have not previously had a 3D mammogram at WakeMed.
Don't use deodorant, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, creams or perfumes under your arms or on your breasts before your mammogram.
Wear a two-piece outfit to your appointment.

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During The Screening

You will be given a gown and asked to remove your clothing and jewelry from the waist up.

For the screening itself, you will stand in front of an X-ray machine equipped to perform 3D mammograms. The technologist will place one breast on a platform and adjust the platform to match your height. The technologist will help you position your head, arms and torso to allow an unobstructed view of your breast.

woman getting a mammogram

Your breast is gradually pressed against the platform by a clear plastic plate. Pressure is applied for a few seconds to spread out the breast tissue. The pressure is not harmful, but you may find it uncomfortable or even painful. If you have too much discomfort, tell the technologist.

Next, the 3D mammogram machine sweeps in an arc over your breast, taking multiple images in a matter of seconds. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds to minimize movement. The 2D and 3D portions of the screening occur simultaneously.

The machine will then be repositioned to take a similar image of your breast from the side. The process is repeated on the other breast. The images collected during a 3D mammogram are synthesized by a computer to form a 3D picture of your breast. The 3D mammogram images can be analyzed as a whole or examined in small fractions for greater detail.

Your Mammogram Results

While you do not need a referral for a screening mammogram, you do need to have an established relationship with a primary care provider or OB-GYN to receive your results. Once a radiologist reviews your mammogram, they'll report the results to your provider. Your provider will contact you to discuss your results, and any next steps needed.

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