Munson Minutes: 3D Mammography Explained

Body

Mammograms save lives by helping doctors find early signs of breast cancer. Did you know there are two types? This short episode of Munson Minutes breaks down a few reasons why 3D mammography is recommended for some women. Ask your primary care provider which is right for you.

Regular screening reduces breast cancer deaths by about one-third. If you’re a woman age 40 or over, make sure to schedule a mammogram with your primary care provider. If you don’t have a family doctor, call Munson Healthcare Ask-A-Nurse at 231-935-0951 for help finding a provider in your area.


3D Mammography Explained

Mammograms are important screening tools that can help doctors find early signs of breast cancer. Two types are available:

A standard mammogram takes two low-dose x-ray images of the breast, while a 3D mammogram captures multiple low-dose breast x-rays from different angles. A computer combines these images to create a high-resolution 3D picture.

Both types are recommended, and the patient experience is the same. But the advanced imagery from 3D mammography can help in a few additional ways:

  • Revealing small growths sometimes difficult to see
  • Producing more detailed images of dense breast tissue
  • And reducing the need for additional appointments sometimes required with standard mammography.

3D mammography is available by referral at these Munson Healthcare screening locations:

Regular screening reduces breast cancer deaths by about one-third. If you’re a woman age 40 or over, make sure to schedule a mammogram with your primary care provider. If you don’t have a family doctor, call Munson Healthcare Ask-A-Nurse at 231-935-0951 for help finding a provider in your area.

Ask-A-Nurse: 231-935-0951