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Breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography)

A Breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography) is a mammography test of the breast. It shows layered images that reduce overlapping tissue; reported with BI-RADS. Typical effective dose 0.5 to 0.6 mSv, similar to about 2 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year).

General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.

What it shows

Layered images that reduce overlapping tissue; reported with BI-RADS.

Why it is done

Screening or diagnostic breast imaging, dense breasts.

Preparation

Avoid deodorant, powder or lotion on the day. Best about a week after a period.

Radiation & safety

Typical effective dose 0.5 to 0.6 mSv, similar to about 2 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long it takes

about 20 minutes. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.

Sample type

Mammography

Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.

Where to get this near you

Care near you

Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.

Common questions

What does a 3d mammogram show?
Layered images that reduce overlapping tissue; reported with BI-RADS.

Why is a 3d mammogram done?
Screening or diagnostic breast imaging, dense breasts.

How do I prepare for a 3d mammogram?
Avoid deodorant, powder or lotion on the day. Best about a week after a period.

Does a 3d mammogram use radiation?
Typical effective dose 0.5 to 0.6 mSv, similar to about 2 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long does a 3d mammogram take?
about 20 minutes

Why is Breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography) done?
Screening or diagnostic breast imaging, dense breasts.

How do I prepare for Breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography)?
Avoid deodorant, powder or lotion on the day. Best about a week after a period.

Is Breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography) safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 0.5 to 0.6 mSv, similar to about 2 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

SI text CC BY 4.0; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA) and MedlinePlus linked as references only, no text copied.

Sources: SI health summary (own words); decoder imaging pack; RadiologyInfo.org and MedlinePlus as references only

Emergency — call102