Tomosynthesis

Breast care

Tomosynthesis - Advanced Breast Imaging

A special type of breast mammogram that is used as a screening tool for early detection of breast cancer.

What is tomosynthesis?

Tomosynthesis is a special type of mammogram that is used as a screening tool for early detection of breast cancer by creating a high definition 3D image of the breast.

It may also be used in conjunction with a 2D mammogram to give a more detailed picture of your breast tissue.

Need to know

What happens during the scan?

Performed in the same way as a normal 2D mammogram, tomosynthesis screening is performed by a HCA UK radiographer and takes no more than 20 minutess. Unlike a 2D mammogram, tomosynthesis produces multiple images from different angles, forming a 3D image of your breast tissue. This image is then reviewed by a HCA UK radiologist.

How to prepare

On the day of your appointment, you will be asked to undress to the waist, so it may be easier to wear appropriate clothing to your appointment.

No special preparation is usually required before a tomosynthesis screening, and you can continue to eat and drink normally beforehand.

You may feel some mild discomfort during the procedure, but this should pass quickly. If you are concerned about the discomfort, you may choose to take a mild analgesic prior to your appointment.

After the scan

After the tomosynthesis procedure has finished you will be able to go home the same day and you should not experience any side effects. Your imaging report will then be sent to your GP or consultant. If the report is inconclusive, you may be recalled for further investigations and screening.