UConn First in the Area to Offer 3D Mammograms

Women who undergo routine mammograms at the University of Connecticut Health Center now have the latest screening and diagnostic technology available to them.  UConn is the first to offer 3D breast tomosynthesis for breast cancer screening in the Hartford region.

Breast tomosynthesis is a revolutionary technology that gives radiologists the ability to identify and characterize individual breast structures without the confusion of overlapping tissue. 

The tomosynthesis screening experience is similar to a traditional mammogram.  During a tomosynthesis exam, multiple, low-dose images of the breast are acquired at different angles.  These images are then used to produce a series of one-millimeter thick slices that can be viewed as a 3D reconstruction of the breast.

Breast tomosynthesis is especially valuable for women receiving a baseline screening, those who have dense breast tissue and/or women with a personal history of breast cancer. The Health Center’s Selenia® Dimensions® breast tomosynthesis system is made by Hologic, a world leader in digital mammography.

Breast cancer screening with tomosynthesis when combined with a conventional 2D mammography has a higher cancer detection rate than conventional 2D mammography alone. Tomosynthesis technology gives radiologists increased confidence with a significant reduction in recall rates.

By offering women the latest technology in mammography, UConn hopes to increase the number of area women who will be routinely screened.  Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, exceeded only by lung cancer. 

Submitted by UConn Health Center.