New 3-D Mammograms

There has been some controversy about screening mammograms, and many are saying they should not even be done. However this is based on studies using older techniques, and relies heavily on cost-benefit analysis; not something you want to tell someone with cancer!

There are advances in mammography, the most recent being 3-D mammograms or tomosynthesis. This uses thin slices (like a CAT scan) and a computer to create a 3-D image for the radiologist to review.

Preliminary reports show that this seems to have less false positives (or unnecessary biopsies), and is slightly more accurate. If this is the case in larger studies I predict it will replace current mammography.