tomosynthesis - 3D mammogram

JuniperCat

Hello!! I am wondering if tomosynthesis is as effective as a regular mammogram for those of us who do not necessarily have dense breasts. My BS said it was only best for those with dense breasts, however, my sister (who also has BC) said that her BS said she should be scanned with 3D mammogram because it generates a clearer picture of what's going on the hidden folds of breast tissue. I'm very interested in you're feelings and responses about this.

MelissaDallas

Its clearer for everyone. If your breasts aren't dense the doctor may think you get clear images with regular technology. I think the radiation dose is a little higher with the 3D. I personally would do the 3D if it were available to me regardless

JuniperCat

Hi, MellissaDallas. Thank you so much for responding to my post! I'm wondering: if it's clearer for everyone, and if my breasts are not dense, then why would the doctor prefer the regular over the 3D

Momof6littles

I was told, when I was looking into my mammogram that the 3D is more radiation. And since many people image just fine with a regular mammogram, many radiologists see no sense in the added exposure. The ALARA principle is in play -

ALARA is an acronym for As Low As Reasonably Achievable. This is a radiation safety principle for minimizing radiation doses and releases of radioactive materials by employing all reasonable methods.

MelissaDallas

Jumiper, regular is probably easier for the doctors office because it doesn't require special insurance approval too. A regular "plain" screening mammogram is required coverage on insurance policies. A 3D might require approval

JuniperCat

Thanks, Melissa!!