Mercy Breast Clinic believe strongly in the benefits of 3D mammogram/tomosynthesis, we will be improving our mammography service, implementing 3D mammogram as a standard imaging technique for both screening and diagnostic mammograms for all of our patients.

This improvement will

Provide greater clarity in our imaging, improving cancer detection.

Reduce false positives compared with 2D imaging.

Reduce the need for further additional mammogram views.

Reduce potential recall of patients which can create unnecessary anxiety and concern.

A 3D mammogram is an effective method of breast imaging, for all breast densities and for women in all age groups. We know 3D mammography is the most advanced breast cancer screening, we believe that this change will benefit our patients, ensuring they have access to the best technology ensuring a clear, accurate and timely diagnosis.

With a 2D (2 dimensional) mammogram- often called conventional mammography, 4 images are taken of the breasts- two from above and two from the sides. This can result in overlap of tissue due to the breast being imaged in one plane. 3D or Tomosynthesis (Tomo) is an advanced form of mammography that produces images in 1mm slices. This allows separation of the overlapping tissue and reduces the ability for abnormalities to be hidden behind normal breast tissue.

Tomo:

-has been proved to increase breast cancer detection by up to 43%

-reduces the likelihood you will be recalled for additional imaging

-is suitable for woman of all ages and breast densities

Yes, 3D mammography/tomosynthesis is covered by Southern Cross and most other insurers.

3D mammogram is a more advanced technology for mammography. Whilst not currently used as part of Breast Screen Aotearoa’s standard approach to screening, it is used as additional imaging if required to aid in diagnosis of any concern that may have been identified. Mercy Radiology believe that 3D mammography provides our specialist Doctors with valuable information aiding in the detection of some small invasive cancers and we feel this should be offered to all our patients, not just those presenting with a clinical concern.

There is a small increase radiation dose with Tomo but we have installed dose reduction software so the total radiation is not significantly different to standard imaging. The overall dose is still well within the range acceptable for a screening study.

Our 3D mammogram/Tomosynthesis costs $270-$375 for private paying.