3D Mammography

A new option for you.

3D Mammography, also referred to as tomosynthesis, is an imaging procedure that uses low-energy x-rays to create a 3D image of the breasts.

While conventional mammography takes pictures of the breast from two angles — up and down, and left and right — tomosynthesis takes multiple pictures from different angles. Benefits of tomosynthesis include improved imaging for patients with dense breast tissue. Tomosynthesis can also decrease recall rates for screening mammography

Does a 3D Mammogram expose me to more radiation?

A 3D mammogram exposes you to about twice the radiation as a standard digital screening mammogram. The total exposure is equal to that of a traditional film based mammogram. To put your exposure into everyday terms, a mammogram with TOMO is equal to your radiation exposure if you:

• Flew 2,000 miles
• Drove 600 miles
• Rode a bike for 20 miles
• Breathed the air in Boston or New York City for 4 days

When you factor in that 3D screening mammograms reduce callbacks by more than 50% in addition to false positives and false negatives, the radiation exposure is a minimal concern at best.

Schedule an Appointment

No referral for a 3D mammogram is needed. Call 616-685-4000 to schedule your appointment.

Printable Facts and Information about 3D Mammography >

WZZM TV 13 "Friends for Life" Segement about Advanced Breast Cancer Screening Options, including 3D Mammography, for Women with Dense Breasts, featuring Dr. Jamie Caughran, Medical Director of our Comprehensive Breast Center
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