Well, mammograms are nothing but a low dose x-ray for breasts. Most of the times, mammograms are used for the purpose of detecting breast cancers. One of the finest aspects of mammograms is that it is capable of detecting the early symptoms of breast cancer so that preventive steps can be taken earlier. And there are two types of mammograms that you will find- One is a 2D mammogram, and another one is 3D mammogram. These two types are slightly different from each other, and here, we are going to discuss that.

The positioning of the mammograms

The positioning of both 2D and 3D mammograms are almost the same. But the only difference between them is that the 3D mammogram, instead of taking a single picture, takes multiple pictures. The unit moves around the arc of the breasts and takes numerous shots. The next work is done by the computer software where it combines all the snapshots and delivers a complete picture. The interesting part about the 3D mammography is that it uses the same amount of radiation like a 2D mammogram and takes the same time, but when it comes to detailing, a 3D mammogram is a winner.

Images that they produce

In case of traditional mammograms, they are taking pictures of the object, which itself is 3D and delivers an image, which is 2D. And as a result of that, you will get structures, which are sitting on the top of each other and mimics a mass. But, a 3D mammogram allows a doctor to examine each and every slice of the breast and determine whether there is a mass or not. And that implies the fact that with the coming of 3D mammogram, the chances of detecting even a small mass on the breast have improved and the chances of delivering false positives have decreased.

Benefits of 3d mammograms over 2D mammograms

• A 3D mammogram provides a clearer and comprehensive look of the breast tissue. Also, with the coming of 3D mammograms, the radiologists are now capable of detecting cancer more accurately and sooner.
• A 3D mammogram also delivers a clearer image. Doctors can now examine the breast tissues from different angles. And it will help them to detect masses more accurately.
• We have already mentioned that 3D mammograms provide significant clarity of the images and as a result of that, chances of raising false alarms has also been reduced. Well, that also implies the fact that the rates of ‘call backs’ has witnessed a reduction.
• Also, a 3D mammogram presents the optimal clarity in images of breast density. According to the studies and researches, it has been observed that the women who have dense breasts hold higher chances of developing breast cancer. Therefore, it is clearly visible that 3D mammograms are more accurate than those traditional 2D mammograms.

So, these are some of the basic difference between 2D and 3D mammograms. And it is clearly visible that if you compare between those two, 3D mammogram will be considered as the winner. Thus, to experience the images of 3D mammograms, head to the Radiology Center at Harding, Morristown New Jersey.