3-Dimensional Diagnostic Method in Breast Tumors: TOMOSYNTHESIS

Mammography is a method of imaging breast tissue using low-energy x-rays. It is also used for screening purposes in the early diagnosis of breast cancer. Since early diagnosis affects treatment success, women aged 40 years and older are recommended to have mammography and breast ultrasound every year.

How to Perform and Analyze Tomosynthesis Mammography?

In tomosynthesis mammography, cross-sectional images are obtained using a low dose of X-ray while the X-ray tube is moving at a certain angle arc. The resulting raw (projection) images reveal a serial image in thin cross-sectional ranges such as 0.5 mm, and 1 mm. Thanks to these thin sections, breast tumors can be detected with higher accuracy and at an earlier stage.

What is Tomosynthesis Mammography?

Tomosynthesis Mammography is considered to be the advanced technology used in breast imaging. Until now, the overlapping of images in two-dimensional (2D) mammography could cause the images to not be obtained in the desired detail. This could make it difficult to evaluate the masses. Today, it is possible to visualize breast tissue in three dimensions (3D) with Tomosynthesis Mammography technology. In this way, tissue overlap is prevented and the possibility of overlooking the tumors is significantly reduced.

What are the Advantages of Tomosynthesis Mammography?

It provides a 3D, cross-sectional scan of the breast tissue. The density of breast tissue and the presence of fibrocystic structures in women who are not in menopause or under the age of 40 may cause difficulties in mammography evaluation. Cancer images can be stored between healthy breast tissue. This problem is prevented with tomosynthesis mammography, and it is possible to detect masses in the early period, especially in young women. Since the false-positive images formed by the overlapping breast tissue are eliminated, it reduces the number of repeat films taken in special positions. Thus, unnecessary radiation is prevented and the rate of biopsy and surgery is reduced by increasing the rate of correct diagnosis.

What You Need to Know Before Tomosynthesis Mammography

• Our radiology bank offers you services regarding your registration and insurance procedures before mammography.
• Products such as powder, cream, and deodorant should not be applied to the armpit or breast area before a mammography examination.