Mammography
Mammography is a specialized X-ray imaging technique used to examine breast tissue. It remains one of the most important tools for early detection and diagnostic breast assessment.
Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT), often called a 3D mammogram, takes multiple thin-slice images of the breast and reconstructs them into a 3D view. It improves cancer detection — especially in dense breasts — and reduces unnecessary callbacks.
"Dense breasts" describes the natural balance of glandular tissue and fat in your breasts. It is not a disease, but it makes cancer harder to see on a standard mammogram — which is why some women need additional imaging.
A Diagnostic Mammogram is a more detailed breast X-ray used when there is a specific concern — a lump, nipple discharge, or an abnormal screening result. It takes extra views to look closely at the area in question.
Having breast implants does not stop you from getting a mammogram. The mammographer uses a special technique called Eklund views to push the implant aside and image the surrounding breast tissue clearly and safely.
Mammography is a branch of Radiology that involves the use of low-energy X-rays to see the inside of the breasts. This investigation is of growing popularity because it can be used to routinely check the breast for growths, lesions or calcifications without much associated risks.
A Screening Mammogram is a routine breast X-ray for women without symptoms, used to detect breast cancer before symptoms develop. It lowers the chance of dying from breast cancer, but it can miss cancers and can also lead to callbacks or biopsies for changes that are not cancer.
BI-RADS is the standardised scoring system radiologists use to summarise mammogram results. Categories run from 0 (incomplete) to 6 (known cancer). This guide explains what each number actually means for you.
