3D Mammography (Breast Tomosynthesis)

What is breast tomosynthesis?

Breast tomosynthesis is a game-changer in breast cancer screening. While traditional 2D mammography is still an effective testing method, it produces a "flat" image of the breast. Tomosynthesis offers a 3D image of the breast, allowing doctors to examine breast tissue layer by layer. This type of mammogram can spot abnormalities not visible in a 2D image.

Tomosynthesis is FDA-approved and offers many benefits, including:

• 3D mammography detects 41% more invasive breast cancers. They can find these cancers typically when they are smaller and more effectively treated.
• Patients requiring immediate recalls for additional imaging have been reduced by 40-50%. This reduces time and anxiety.
• 3D technology makes reading mammograms on women with dense breast tissue easier. The radiologist can scroll through the "slices" of images to determine if an area of interest is abnormal or merely overlapping normal breast tissue. This decreases the need for additional tests.

What should you expect during your 3D mammogram?

During your examination, you will not notice much of a difference. The machine will move in an arc during the exposures and the technologist may ask you to stop breathing during the exposures. The time between images may take a little longer as the technologist waits for the image to be constructed.

Will insurance cover breast tomosynthesis / 3D mammography?

More and more insurance companies are covering Breast Tomosynthesis (3D mammography), which has quickly become the gold standard for diagnostic breast exams. Medicare currently pays for the procedure, as do some commercial insurances.

Unfortunately, at this time there are still some insurance companies unwilling to cover this latest technology and denying the charge as not medically necessary or experimental. Please check with your insurance company regarding coverage for tomosynthesis before scheduling your appointment. If your insurance company denies your claim, the additional charge you may be responsible for with 3D (tomosynthesis) is $51. If your claim is denied, ProMedica will provide you with a copy of an appeal letter to send to your insurance company. Instructions should be included with your explanation of benefits (EOB) on how to appeal a denial.

If you file an appeal with your insurance company, please notify ProMedica Customer Service at 844-373-0871 and we will suspend your $51 charge, pending an outcome of the appeal.