Tomosynthesis

Advanced 3D mammography

The Breast Imaging Center offers 3D mammography, called tomosynthesis. We strive to offer patients the latest technology and the most advanced treatment options. We are one of the first community hospitals to provide this service for patients.

Newton-Wellesley Hospital offers screening mammograms on campus and at our off-site Ambulatory Care Centers in Natick and Walpole. Learn more about our locations. To schedule a mammogram appointment at any of these locations, call 617-243-6829.

The Newton-Wellesley Mammography Program is licensed and inspected by the state of Massachusetts yearly, certified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and accredited by the American College of Radiology.

What is tomosynthesis?

Tomosynthesis allows the physician to see thin mammography sections of the entire breast. This results in better detail without the superimposed tissue above and below each section that can hide abnormalities on the traditional two-dimensional image provided by mammography.

What are the benefits of tomosynthesis?

Tomosynthesis provides physicians with a clearer image of the breast tissue and decreases the need for further examinations. This technology can help distinguish superimposed tissue from real abnormalities, leading to fewer callbacks and less anxiety for women. Tomosynthesis may also find smaller breast cancers at earlier stages. Most importantly, tomosynthesis has resulted in significant improvement in the detection of invasive cancers.

Who should have tomosynthesis?

Almost all patients who need a screening or diagnostic mammogram can benefit from having 3D mammography. Tomosynthesis is especially helpful for women with dense breast tissue.

View locations and how to make an appointment 

Does tomosynthesis have more radiation?

Yes, adding tomosynthesis does involve additional radiation compared with the standard digital mammogram. The radiation dose for the combined digital mammogram and tomosynthesis remains well under the FDA guidelines for mammography.

What does the equipment look like?

The equipment appears identical to a standard digital mammogram except that the tube head arcs over the breast during a four-second exposure. The breast is compressed similar to a standard 2D mammogram, but patients often find the compression less uncomfortable because of the changes in the design of the paddles. Our certified technologists have special training with this new equipment and strive to help make the exam as comfortable as possible.

Who reads my exam?

After your 3D tomosynthesis mammogram is obtained, the images are interpreted by the physician, a specially trained breast imaging radiologist.

If I need additional screening, does that mean I have cancer?

The majority of women who have extra views do not have cancer. It is our responsibility to be exceedingly thorough and look into any changes in your breast tissue that may appear on your films. Often, taking another image from a different angle will help determine if the area is true of concern.

Newton-Wellesley Hospital
2014 Washington Street
Newton, MA 02462
Phone: 617-243-5345