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UCLA Breast Imaging

Breast Imaging: 3D Mammography (Tomosynthesis)

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Breast Imaging: 3D Mammography (Tomosynthesis)

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What is 3D mammography?

3D mammography (digital breast Tomosynthesis) is the latest FDA-approved advancement to find breast cancer early, when it is most treatable. 3D mammography allows your radiologist to see your breast tissue details more clearly and may uncover breast cancer that would otherwise be hidden by overlying breast tissue.

UCLA was the first facility in California to become 100 percent digital and among the first medical centers in the region with the resources and expertise to offer 3D mammography.

How is 3D different?

3D mammography provides radiologists with multiple, thin-section images, allowing the radiologist to evaluate your breast tissue layer by layer. During the exam, the x-ray arm moves in a small arc over your breast and acquires multiple low-dose images, which are reconstructed into a 3D image. Conventional 2D mammograms obtain two images of the breast.


2D vs 3D Mammography: 2D image is taken from top and side of the breast, which may create images with overlapping tissue. For 3D image, 15 images of the breast are taken from the top and side, which are transformed into non-overlapping breast tissue.


Advantages:

Numerous recent studies (PDF) showed 3D mammography increased invasive breast cancer detection rates by 40%. Additionally, 15% fewer patients were "called back" and asked to return for additional evaluation.

According to the National Cancer Institute, about half of all women screened annually within a 10-year period will be asked to return for additional evaluation at least once.  


What to Expect During Your Exam

  • The process of 3D mammographic is very similar to 2D digital mammography and takes the same amount of time.
  • Images of each breast will be taken from the top and side of the breast. Pressure will be applied while taking the picture. Although pressure may be uncomfortable, it is essential to obtain diagnostic quality images.
  • We use the latest 3D mammography technology and software to limit radiation exposure.
  • Your exam will take approximately 10-15 minutes.


Cost:

As a new technology, some insurance plans do not include 3D mammography as a covered service for breast cancer screening or diagnostic study. For patients with 3D mammography coverage, we will bill your insurance. For patients without 3D mammography coverage, we offer a $45 3D surcharge option at check-in. For questions about your bill or follow up from your insurance about 3D Mammography, call (310) 301-8860 to speak with our billing specialists.


To learn more about 3D mammography, please check out

  • Understanding 3D Mammography (PDF)  »
  • 3D Mammography Screening (PDF) »
  • Advanced 3D Mammography Leads to More Accurate Breast Cancer Detection (PDF) »

Breast Imaging at UCLA provides a full range of high quality and innovative breast imaging studies, treatments and procedures to the greater Los Angeles area. We are currently located in Westwood, Santa Monica, Santa Clarita, Toluca Lake, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes, and Westlake Village. Click here to learn more about all of our locations.


Radiology Central Scheduling

  • Phone: (310) 301-6800
  • Fax: (310) 794-9035
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