3D Mammography in Rochester, NY
Elizabeth Wende Breast Care (EWBC) was an early adopter of 3D mammography, also called Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT), by participating in landmark clinical research that led to FDA approval for 3D mammography and widespread implementation of this new and exciting technology throughout the United States.
EWBC was the first in our region to offer this technology to our patients beginning in the summer of 2011. 3D mammography with C-View is available at all EWBC offices, demonstrating our commitment to offering the latest technology to all our patients.
EWBC has seven breast imaging centers throughout Rochester, including Batavia, Brighton, Geneseo, Greece, Victor, Watertown, and Webster. Learn about 3D mammography and call (585) 442-2190 to schedule your appointment. You can also schedule your appointment online today!
The main benefits of 3D mammography include increased cancer detection and decreased unnecessary callbacks or extra pictures. It truly is a better mammogram.
- A mammogram offering higher breast cancer detection
- Better visualization of breast tissue using 3D image slices
- Beneficial for ALL patients, especially those with
- No additional radiation compared to a 2D digital mammogram
Mammogram Minute: Why tomosynthesis (3D) mammography?
What is 3D mammography with C-View?
Not all 3D mammography is the same. As soon as it became available in 2014, EWBC started using a new and better 3D mammography with C-View utilizing less radiation. A traditional 3D mammogram exam (that women may get elsewhere) consists of acquiring the 3D images and then acquiring traditional 2D images at the same time while the breast is in compression. This longer exposure leads to increased radiation dose. Therefore, in our ongoing effort to provide the highest quality care, we implemented C-View (synthetic mammography).
This exciting new 3D technology allows us to acquire the 3D mammogram images and then use this data to reconstruct the 2D images. The result is a dramatically lower radiation dose for the 3D with C-View mammogram comparable to standard mammography– all the benefits of 3D mammography without the increased radiation dose.
What If another image is needed after my mammogram?
Diagnostic Reasons for Additional Imaging
The following are breast conditions that may require additional diagnostic studies and/or procedures:
OVERLAPPED TISSUE
With 3D mammography this is less of a problem — although at times, the breast tissue can be “stacked up,” making it look like a mass is present. A diagnostic view taken from a different angle can prove if an area is truly a lesion or is simply the illusion of a mass. 3D Mammography minimizes the need for diagnostic views for overlapped tissue — but does not eliminate it.
CALCIFICATIONS
Calcifications in the breast can sometimes be an indication of cancer. But more often, the presence of calcifications is simply a benign condition. Diagnostic magnified views can help our radiologists determine which type(s) of calcifications are present.
MASSES
A mass in the breast can also be an indication of cancer. To determine if a mass seen is suspicious, our physicians need to see its border clearly. Diagnostic views may be necessary to see all edges of the mass, and diagnostic procedures such as ultrasound may be necessary to determineits composition.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I need to have additional tests, does this mean I have a cancer?
The vast majority of women who have additional diagnostic tests do not
have cancer. Our responsibility at EWBC is to be exceedingly cautious and look into any changes in your breast tissue or areas that may appear new on your screening mammogram as compared to your prior mammogram. Often, taking another picture from a different angle will help determine if the area is truly of concern.
Why do I need to have an ultrasound exam if mammography is the best test for the detection of breast cancer?
Mammography is the most accurate test for the detection of an abnormality in the breast, but it cannot show if a lump is fluid filled. Ultrasound is a tool that can characterize lumps you can feel, as well as help determine if a mass seen on a mammogram is solid or cystic (fluid filled). This is crucial infUormation that helps determine if a biopsy is necessary.
What if I need more images, but was unable to wait while the doctor read my mammogram?
If you need additional diagnostic images or tests in order for us to make an accurate diagnosis, we will call you to schedule a return visit. We will also
send you a follow-up letter in the mail. Please be aware that this diagnostic appointment may require an additional insurance co-payment.
Mammography is currently the most accurate single method of detecting breast cancer in its very early stages, when it is most curable. If an area of possible concern is seen on your screening mammogram, additional diagnostic views, an ultrasound or other types of testing may be necessary to make an accurate diagnosis, as well as to prevent unnecessary surgical procedures.
Should you have any questions regarding screening mammography, additional diagnostic views or other testing, please contact us at (585) 442-2190 or send a secure message portal.ewbc.com.
Why is 3D mammography a better option?
The benefits of 3D mammography arise from its ability to reduce overlapping structures in the breast. By separating the tissue it helps to prevent normal tissue from obscuring small masses that could be cancers. The radiologist, therefore has a more accurate view of the breast without the overlapping tissue that sometimes masks a suspicious area. This is why 3D mammography has been proven in many studies to detect more cancers. Additionally, 3D mammography has been shown to reduce callbacks for additional testing by as much as 50% due to its ability to separate the breast tissue. These benefits hold true for ALL patients regardless of age or tissue type. An even greater benefit can be seen in women considered at high risk for developing breast cancer or those with dense breast tissue.
How does a mammogram with 3D differ from a traditional 2D mammogram?
The 3D mammography experience is similar to a traditional mammogram and the 3D mammography system is identical in appearance to a standard 2D digital mammography system. The 3D imaging occurs as the digital exam is being performed, adding no additional time to your visit. Multiple images are obtained of each breast as the x ray tube moves over each breast. These are processed and then interpreted on a computer workstation by the radiologist.
When performing a combination exam, the technologist positions you and compresses the breast in the same way she routinely would for a 2D mammogram, the scanner rotates partially around the breast and takes multiple low dose images from many different angles. The number of images produced is dependent on the size of the breast. The radiologist then views these thin (1mm) layers on a computer workstation allowing the entire thickness of the breast to be viewed without the limitations of overlapping breast structures.
In a standard 2D mammogram, only two images of each breast are obtained. With 3D mammography, the radiologist has a series of images to view which leads to a greater ability to accurately diagnose subtle masses or abnormalities.
Does a 3D mammogram expose me to more radiation?
The short answer is No. Elizabeth Wende Breast Care performs 3D mammography with C-View technology, which allows for a similar radiation dose as conventional 2D mammography. For further information, please see the above (What is 3D mammography with C-View?).
When performing a combination exam, the technologist positions you and compresses the breast in the same way she routinely would for a 2D mammogram, the scanner rotates partially around the breast and takes multiple low dose images from many different angles. The number of images produced is dependent on the size of the breast. The radiologist then views these thin (1mm) layers on a computer workstation allowing the entire thickness of the breast to be viewed without the limitations of overlapping breast structures.
In a standard 2D mammogram, only two images of each breast are obtained. With 3D mammography, the radiologist has a series of images to view which leads to a greater ability to accurately diagnose subtle masses or abnormalities.
Who reads my 3D mammogram?
After your 3D mammogram is complete, our physicians (radiologists with subspecialty training in breast imaging and 3D mammography) will interpret your images. You will receive your results at the end of your visit if you stay for your results or within a few days if you prefer not to wait for your results. A copy of the report is sent to your physician(s).
How much does 3D mammography cost?
3D Mammography was approved for use by the FDA in February 2011. As of 2015, most insurance carriers consider 3D Mammography a covered service. In addition, the New York State mammography law was introduced in January 2017, requiring New York State insurance companies to cover Mammography. Please note: Law does not apply to self-funded plans or non-New York State insurance companies. Please consult with your insurance company if you have further questions.