3D MAMMOGRAPHY SERVICES IN GRANTSBURG

3D mammography, also known as tomosynthesis mammography, is a relatively new breast imaging procedure that uses low-dose X-rays to capture multiple images of the breast, at all different angles. The images are then brought together to create a crystal-clear 3D reconstruction of the breast. The radiologist is then able to review the reconstruction, one slide at a time, almost like turning pages in a book. This makes it easier for our diagnostic doctors in Grantsburg to thoroughly read the mammogram and see if there's anything to be concerned about.

Burnett Medical Center in Grantsburg offers both 3D mammograms and 2D mammograms to produce images of breast tissue in order to detect lumps, tumors, or other abnormalities. Specifically, 2D mammograms provide doctors with a 2D image to evaluate the breast. Only two images, a side-to-side view and a top-to-bottom view, of each breast is taken. This can be limiting due to overlapping layers of tissue, which can sometimes produce unclear results or false alarms.

On the other hand, 3D mammography (or tomosynthesis) can produce more detailed images of breast tissue. 3D mammography produces multiple X-ray images of the breasts from different angles to create a 3D rendering of internal breast tissue. This allows radiologists to view the breast in 1-millimeter 'slices' rather than just the full thickness from the top and from the side. This ultimately allows your doctor to better evaluate your breasts layer by layer.

• It provides greater accuracy for women across a variety of ages and breast densities; it's the only mammogram FDA approved as superior for women with dense breasts.
• 3D mammography may be particularly effective for women with dense breast tissue or those at high risk for developing breast cancer.
• Detects 20-65% more invasive breast cancer compared to 2D mammography alone.
• Reduces callbacks by up to 40% compared to 2D mammography alone.

• Do not wear deodorant, perfume, lotion or powder under your arm or on your breasts on the day of your exam.
• Tell the clinic if you have breast implants when you make your appointment.
• Tell the clinic if you have physical disabilities that may make it hard for you to sit up, lift your arms or dress yourself. Let them know if you use a wheelchair or scooter.
• Talk with the staff about how they will handle issues of modesty that you may have due to your religion.

A 3D mammography procedure (also called tomosynthesis) at our Grantsburg diagnostic imaging facility resembles that of traditional mammography. The procedure takes place in a private room and is conducted by a radiologic technologist. The woman undergoing 3D mammography is required to remove any clothing above the waist, as well as any jewelry or other objects that might interfere with the imaging process.

During the procedure, the woman is positioned before a 3D mammography machine and her breasts are held in place by two compression plates. The pressure placed on the breasts by the compression plates can cause discomfort but only lasts for a few seconds. When ready, the radiologic technologist will start the tomosynthesis machine and a robotic arm will move in an arc over the woman's breasts as multiple X-ray images are taken. The dose is like film mammography and is only slightly higher than in standard 2D digital mammography. The scan itself takes less than two to three seconds per view. The entire procedure takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes.