Back to Blog

Munson Minutes: 3D Mammography Explained

Published on Oct. 11, 2021

Mammograms save lives by helping doctors find early signs of breast cancer. Did you know there are two types? This short episode of Munson Minutes breaks down a few reasons why 3D mammography is recommended for some women. Ask your primary care provider which is right for you.

Regular screening reduces breast cancer deaths by about one-third. If you’re a woman age 40 or over, make sure to schedule a mammogram with your primary care provider. If you don’t have a family doctor, call Munson Healthcare Ask-A-Nurse at 231-935-0951 for help finding a provider in your area.


3D Mammography Explained

Mammograms are important screening tools that can help doctors find early signs of breast cancer. Two types are available:

A standard mammogram takes two low-dose x-ray images of the breast, while a 3D mammogram captures multiple low-dose breast x-rays from different angles. A computer combines these images to create a high-resolution 3D picture.

Both types are recommended, and the patient experience is the same. But the advanced imagery from 3D mammography can help in a few additional ways:

  • Revealing small growths sometimes difficult to see
  • Producing more detailed images of dense breast tissue
  • And reducing the need for additional appointments sometimes required with standard mammography.

3D mammography is available by referral at these Munson Healthcare screening locations:

Regular screening reduces breast cancer deaths by about one-third. If you’re a woman age 40 or over, make sure to schedule a mammogram with your primary care provider. If you don’t have a family doctor, call Munson Healthcare Ask-A-Nurse at 231-935-0951 for help finding a provider in your area.

Ask-A-Nurse   Learn More