Screening and Diagnostic Mammograms

3D Mammograms:

The Breast Imaging Center at UMC also offers 3D Mammography. 3D mammograms are an FDA-approved advanced screening and diagnostic tool designed to identify smaller tumors sooner for earlier breast cancer detection. During the 3D part of the exam, the x-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple images of the breast tissue. The computer then produces 3-dimensional images in one-millimeter slices giving the Radiologists greater visibility to see the breast tissue's details. You may also hear it called breast tomosynthesis. Any woman needing a mammogram should consider 3D mammography.

Breast Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging of the breast uses sound waves to produce pictures of the internal structures of the breast. It is primarily used to help diagnose breast lumps or other abnormalities you or your doctor may have found during a physical exam, mammogram or breast MRI. Ultrasound, also known as sonography, is a safe, painless, and noninvasive procedure that does not use radiation.

Breast MRI:

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the breast captures multiple images of your breast. These images are combined, using a computer, to generate detailed pictures. Breast MRI’s are often used to screen for breast cancer in women thought to have a high risk of the disease. A breast MRI may also be used to assess the extent of breast cancer.

MRI’s may be recommended if:

• You have been diagnosed with breast cancer and your doctor wants to determine the extent of the cancer
• You have a suspected leak or rupture of a breast implant
• You are at high risk of breast cancer, defined as a lifetime risk of 20% or greater, as calculated by risk tools that take your family history and other factors into consideration
• You have a strong family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer
• You have very dense breast tissue
• You have a hereditary breast cancer gene mutation (BRCA1 or BRCA2)
• You have had radiation treatments to your chest area before age 30

If you are unsure whether you are considered high risk, ask your doctor to help you determine your personal risk estimate. A referral to a breast clinic or breast health specialist may help you better understand your risk and your screening options.

A breast MRI is intended to be used in addition to a mammogram or another breast-imaging test, not as a replacement for a mammogram. Although it is a sensitive test; a breast MRI can still miss some breast cancers that a mammogram will detect.