Using radiology to detect abnormalities in breast tissue, mammograms have helped women detect the early stages of breast cancer for several decades. However, thanks to technological advances that allow us to pair mammography with three-dimensional imaging, we now have even more information available to us. 3D mammograms allow us to detect more cancers than traditional mammograms while resulting in fewer false positives.

Central Oregon Radiology Associates (or CORA) is proud to offer 3D mammograms to our patients in Bend, Redmond, Madras, and Prineville, Oregon. We are the only accredited breast center of excellence as well as the only center offering MRI guided breast biopsies in Central Oregon. Our Women’s Health specialists offer a full range of services including digital mammograms and 3D digital mammograms, as well as infertility workups, obstetric and ovulation studies, pelvic ultrasounds, and MRIs.

Here’s How 3D Mammograms Are Revolutionizing Medicine

Traditional mammograms use x-rays to view a two-dimensional image of the breast. This results in two images of each breast in different projections that are then read by your radiologist. While this method used to take place with film images, they are now all digital. We use digital receptors and computers to generate, evaluate and store images.

Though the two-dimensional method has helped countless women detect breast cancer through annual screenings, today there are many more advanced options. Most recently, 3D mammograms, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis (or DBT), has completely revolutionized women’s imaging services. By taking a three-dimensional image of the breast, radiologists can look through many different layers of your breast tissue. Masses and abnormalities that used to be masked by overlying tissue can no longer hide! We are now able to detect more cancers with fewer false alarms.

3D Mammograms Can Detect More Cancers Than Traditional Methods

3D mammograms detect UP TO 41% more invasive breast cancers than traditional methods. That means you are more likely to detect early onset breast cancer thanks to modern radiology technology.

3D Mammograms Have Less False Positives Than Traditional Methods

3D mammograms also reduce false positives by up to 40%. That means you are less likely to have to return for additional imaging as a result of screening abnormalities from artifactual findings (frequently found on 2D exams).

With so many benefits, CORA is proud to offer 3D mammogram services at our locations in Central Oregon. The NCCN, National Comprehensive Cancer Network, is the national leader in cancer treatment guidelines, recommends women get screened annually beginning at age 40. Other large medical organizations, such as The American Cancer Society, recommend that women begin screening annually at 45 years. If you are 40-44 years old, annual screening is a choice between you and your provider. Contact us to schedule your mammogram.