Next to skin cancer, Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer faced by women around the globe. In the United States, around 300,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed each and every year. Breast cancer in its early stages is highly treatable, which makes early detection of the chronic disease extremely important. South Jersey Radiology Associates (SJRA) offers women’s imaging studies in South Jersey that allow for early stages of breast cancer to be detected.
Two types of women’s imaging techniques are 3D mammograms and breast MRI scans. Both scans operate differently and have different measures for detecting breast cancer. Here are the main differences between a 3D mammogram and a breast MRI scan.
What Is A Breast MRI Scan?
A breast MRI scan is a type of imaging study that uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to visualize the overall structure of breast tissue. Breast MRI scans have only started being used recently to detect breast cancer in individuals who have genetic predispositions due to their family history. Under these circumstances, breast MRI scans are more accurate than 3D mammograms.
Breast MRI scans can monitor breast cancer during the various treatment phases as well. Oncologists request radiologists to use breast MRI scans to monitor the body’s response to various treatments such as chemotherapy or other medications.
What Is A 3D Mammogram?
A 3D mammogram is the latest form of mammography scan that was introduced in 2011. The process between a traditional mammogram and a 3D mammogram is the exact same. 3D mammograms provide more detailed images of breast tissue in comparison to a traditional (2D) mammogram.
A traditional mammogram operates by scanning two separate views of breast tissue. The first view is from the side and the second view is from the top. A 3D mammogram captures high-quality images from more angles which allows radiologists to have a better understanding of the breast tissue. Both scans can detect breast cancer, but 3D mammograms are a lot more accurate and helpful for women with dense breast tissue.
Should I Get A 3D Mammogram or a Breast MRI Scan?
Both women’s imaging studies can detect the early stages of breast cancer. If you are going for a routine annual screening mammogram, a 3D mammogram should be the perfect option for you. Breast MRI scans should be conducted if you have a history of breast cancer in your family or if further imaging is needed after an annual screening. When you speak with your referring physician, they will provide you with both options and let you know what study works best for you.
If you are a patient who would like to schedule a 3D mammogram or a breast MRI scan, set up your appointment today at any of the following locations:
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- Cherry Hill Office – Cherry Hill, NJ
- Haddonfield Office – Haddonfield, NJ
- Marlton (Greentree) Office – Marlton, NJ
- Moorestown Office – Moorestown, NJ
- Turnersville Office – Turnersville, NJ
- West Deptford Office – West Deptford, NJ
- Willingboro Office – Willingboro, NJ
- Women’s Center at Cross Keys – Sewell, NJ
- Women’s Center at Medford – Medford, NJ
- Women’s Center at Mount Laurel – Mount Laurel, NJ
- Women’s Center at Voorhees – Voorhees Township, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
A breast MRI scan is an imaging technique that uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to visualize the structure of breast tissue. It is particularly useful for individuals with a genetic predisposition or family history of breast cancer. Breast MRIs are highly accurate in detecting breast cancer and can also be used to monitor treatment response if needed.
A 3D mammogram is an advanced type of mammography first introduced in 2011. It provides more detailed images of breast tissue compared to traditional 2D mammograms. By capturing multiple images from different angles, 3D mammograms offer radiologists a better understanding of breast tissue, making them particularly beneficial for women with dense breast tissue.
Both 3D mammograms and breast MRI scans can detect the early stages of breast cancer. If you are undergoing a routine annual screening, a 3D mammogram is recommended. However, if you have a family history of breast cancer or require further imaging after an annual screening, a breast MRI scan may be necessary. Consult with your referring doctor to determine which study is best suited for you.
South Jersey Radiology offers 3D mammograms at any of the following locations:
• Cherry Hill Office – Cherry Hill, NJ
• Haddonfield Office – Haddonfield, NJ
• Marlton (Greentree) Office – Marlton, NJ
• Moorestown Office – Moorestown, NJ
• Turnersville Office – Turnersville, NJ
• West Deptford Office – West Deptford, NJ
• Willingboro Office – Willingboro, NJ
• Women’s Center at Cross Keys – Sewell, NJ
• Women’s Center at Medford – Medford, NJ
• Women’s Center at Mount Laurel – Mount Laurel, NJ
• Women’s Center at Voorhees – Voorhees Township, NJ
South Jersey Radiology has a team of board-certified, subspecialized radiologists who read and interpret our studies. All radiologists have received additional training to ensure a thorough analysis of your imaging results.