3D digital mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), is a modern technology for conducting mammography tests that offer more precise and detailed images of breast tissues than traditional 2D mammography.

The technology involves the use of low-dose X-rays to capture multiple images of the breast from different angles and generate a series of thin, high-resolution slice images. It enhances the capability of interpreting mammography results and detecting cancerous tissues, hence making it a better option for breast cancer screening.

This article highlights several advantages of 3D digital mammography over traditional 2D mammography.

1. Improved sensitivity for detecting breast cancer

One of the primary advantages of 3D digital mammography is its higher sensitivity for detecting breast cancer.

DBT brings out more precise and refined images than 2D mammography, which can often leave overlapping tissues and structures that obscure the details of a tumor. The 3D images produced by DBT can help radiologists identify potential cancerous tissues that would not have been seen with 2D images.

A study published in the journal Radiology showed that DBT screenings found 34% more invasive cancers than 2D mammography.

2. Lower recall and false positive rates

Another significant advantage of 3D digital mammography is a decrease in the recall and false-positive rates, which are major problems associated with conventional mammograms.

False positives occur when mammograms show a lesion or abnormality that appears to be cancerous, but is not. Such findings often lead to further testing such as biopsies, which can be painful, uncomfortable, and inconvenient.

DBT reduces these unnecessary recalls by revealing the differences between multiple layers of breast tissue, making it easier for radiologists to determine whether or not a lesion is truly cancerous. According to the National Cancer Institute, 3D mammography reduces the number of false positives by up to 40%.

3. Better visualization of breast tissue

Unlike conventional 2D mammography, which captures just two images of the breast from different angles, DBT produces a series of images from various angles that give a more detailed look at breast tissue.

The images generated by DBT make it easier for radiologists to differentiate between normal and abnormal tissue structures, including lumps and masses. Consequently, this enhances the accuracy of mammogram readings and reduces the number of false negatives. Studies have shown that DBT can detect small lesions as small as 1 mm that could go undetected in conventional mammography.

4. Improved diagnostic accuracy

With improved sensitivity and better visualization, DBT provides radiologists with more accurate readings of mammograms.

Researchers have found that DBT leads to a higher diagnostic accuracy compared to traditional 2D mammography, particularly in dense breast tissue. The 3D images reduce the likelihood of missing abnormalities hiding behind dense tissue, which can be misleading on 2D mammography. Studies have also shown that DBT reduces the rate of missed breast cancers by 17-32% in women with dense breasts.

5. Reduced radiation exposure

While mammography is generally considered safe, the radiation used in traditional 2D mammography increases the risk of radiation exposure. DBT uses a lower radiation dosage than traditional mammography, hence minimizing the risks of radiation exposure.

The exposure to radiation from a standard 2D mammogram is approximately 0.4 mSv, while the exposure from DBT is only slightly higher, at 0.5-1.5 mSv.

6. Shorter examination time

DBT screening may take a little longer than 2D mammography, but it is still a relatively brief procedure. The scan involves taking a series of X-rays in less than 10 seconds, providing high-quality images that can be interpreted more easily and quickly.

DBT scanning takes about the same amount of time as a traditional 2D mammogram—between 20 and 30 minutes.

7. Improved screening for high-risk individuals

For women with dense breast tissue or other factors that increase their risk of developing breast cancer, digital breast tomosynthesis offers a more sensitive form of screening.

Dense breast tissue can mask small cancerous areas, making them more difficult to see with traditional 2D mammography. DBT allows for the detection of early-stage tumors that can be missed by 2D mammography, improving the survival rate for high-risk women.

8. Better patient comfort

While mammograms are not known for their comfort, DBT offers a few improvements that make the process more comfortable for some patients. First, compression time is shorter because fewer images are required.

Traditional mammograms require two images—one from the side and one from above. DBT only requires about 11 images, so the total compression time is shorter. Secondly, DBT’s compression plates are curved to conform to the shape of the breast, rather than being flat.

This helps to reduce discomfort and pressure on the breast, making it a more comfortable screening experience.

9. Provides more information for biopsy planning

When a lump or abnormality is detected on a mammogram, a biopsy is often necessary to determine whether or not cancer is present.

DBT provides more visual information regarding the size and location of the lump, which can be useful for planning biopsies. The ability to determine a lump’s exact location can prevent unnecessary biopsies, reduce the number of procedures required, and improve the accuracy of biopsy results.

10. Improved patient outcomes

Due to its improved sensitivity and accuracy, 3D digital mammography has the potential to improve patient outcomes.

Early detection of breast cancer is critical to improving survival rates, and DBT’s precise imaging makes it possible to detect cancerous tissue earlier than conventional mammography. By providing a more detailed view of the breast tissue, DBT can identify changes in tissue that may indicate cancer, making early diagnosis more likely. This can improve the chances for successful treatment and overall patient outcomes.