Breast Tomosynthesis - 3D Mammography

What is Breast Tomosynthesis?

Breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography) was specifically designed to address the limitations of conventional 2D mammography and can be especially beneficial for women with dense breasts (link to dense breasts page). Breast tomosynthesis can be thought of as a 3D exam since it allows radiologists to examine the breast tissue one layer at a time. Instead of viewing all the complexities of breast tissue in a single flat image, the radiologists can examine the tissue one millimeter at a time. Fine details become more visible and are no longer hidden by superimposed breast tissue.

This exam will be conducted by a technologist. Once the mammogram is complete, a dedicated fellowship trained breast radiologists will interpret the results, typically the next business day. Soon after, the report will be available in the electronic medical record system or as a mailed letter.

Hoag offers advanced 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) screening for all women at all of our Hoag imaging centers. You can request 3D imaging when you schedule your appointment or notify the technologist at the start of the exam.

Hoag was the first hospital in California to provide Tomosynthesis and years later remains a technology leader offering this advanced imaging modality at all Hoag breast imaging sites as part of its comprehensive breast imaging services. More than a decade later, 3D mammography itself has evolved and Hoag is proud to offer the highest resolution 3D tomosynthesis available today.

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) all recommend yearly mammograms for women starting at age 40.