If you’re due for a mammogram, you might be feeling a little nervous. Don’t worry — you’re not alone. Just remember that mammograms are essential for early breast cancer detection, and with new technologies like 3D mammography, the process has become even more effective.
If you’re wondering what that might entail, we break it down for you in this month’s post.
At Capital Women’s Care, located in Frederick, Urbana, and Mount Airy, Maryland, our team of experts is proud to offer the latest technology, including 3D mammography.
In the meantime, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about how 3D mammograms work and what to expect during this procedure. Let’s get started.
A 3D mammogram is an advanced form of breast imaging that captures multiple images of your breast from different angles.
Unlike the traditional 2D mammogram, which takes only two images — one from the top and one from the side — a 3D mammogram takes numerous images in thin slices, which are then reconstructed to create a three-dimensional picture of your breast.
Now that you know more about what 3D mammograms are, you might still be wondering what makes this new technology stand out from the traditional 2D mammogram. Consider the following:
The detailed images make it easier to detect small abnormalities that might be missed in a 2D mammogram.
With clearer images, there’s less chance of our needing to call you back for additional screenings due to unclear results.
If you have dense breast tissue, you may benefit greatly from 3D mammograms because the technology reduces the overlap of tissues, making it easier to spot any problems.
Understanding what happens during a 3D mammogram can ease any nerves or anxiety you might have. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of what you can expect:
You stand in front of the mammography machine, and we position your breast on a clear plastic plate. Another plate firmly presses your breast from above to get a clear image.
This machine takes images of your breast in thin slices, moving in an arc over your breast. We ask you to hold still and possibly hold your breath for a few seconds. We repeat this process on both breasts to get a comprehensive screening, which takes about 20 minutes in total.
While some people experience mild discomfort or pressure during the compression, it’s typically brief. We can always make adjustments to ease the pressure.
In most cases, you get your results within a week or two.
If we find anything unusual, we might call you back for additional imaging or tests, but this doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer. We may just need some more information.
There’s no recovery time needed after a 3D mammogram. You can return to your regular activities immediately.
In the end, a 3D mammogram is a powerful tool in the fight against breast cancer, offering clearer, more detailed images than ever before. Early detection is key, so don’t hesitate to schedule your mammogram with us.
Call our office at 301-663-6171 or use our online booking tool to request an appointment with us today.
