3D Screening Mammography (Tomosynthesis)

First at 40. Start screening mammograms at 40. Don't wait.

Lowell General Hospital offers the latest screening technology, 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) at all mammography locations: Lowell General Hospital main campus, Saints campus and Women's Imaging Center.

Learn more about mammogram guidelines

Changes in your breasts often show up in a mammogram long before you can feel them in a self-exam. 3D mammography, or tomosynthesis, has the power to detect lumps hidden by overlapping breast tissue, and has been shown to increase the detection rate of breast cancer.

3D mammography converts digital breast images into a stack of very thin layers or slices — building what is essentially a three-dimensional (3D) mammogram. This allows examination of breast tissue one layer at a time to see fine variations more clearly than traditional digital mammograms, as the finest details are no longer hidden by the breast tissue above and below. When combined with a conventional 2D mammogram, tomosynthesis has a higher cancer detection rate than conventional mammography alone.  

The American College of Radiology (ACR) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, along with other industry experts, recommend a baseline mammogram for women of average risk at age 40, with routine mammograms recommended annually after age 40. Your personal and family medical history will also determine how often you should have a mammogram, so be sure to talk to your doctor.

Remember, you don't need a written order from your doctor for a screening mammogram. Make an appointment online today or call 978-937-6023.

Breast Health Navigators

The Breast Health Navigator is a licensed healthcare provider with experience in women’s health and oncology (cancer care). Her role is to serve as an expert reference and guide for our patients in all aspects of their breast care. From the time of an abnormal mammogram, the Breast Health Navigator works with the patient and family members to provide support and education and to assist in the delivery of comprehensive breast care at Lowell General Hospital. Learn more about our Breast Health program.