Digital tomosynthesis is an imaging method in which multiple X-ray images are taken of a stationary, compressed, breast. Each image is taken at a slightly different angle, producing a series of 'slices' that can be viewed individually or one after another as a kind of movie. This technique allows clinicians to get a more three dimensional view of the breast being examined and provides more information than a standard mammogramDiagnostic procedure that involves taking an X-ray of the breasts. Changes due to cancer growth can often be seen in the images produced. More on ths topic can be found in the pages on breast cancer detection..1 2 3
An animation depicting digital tomosynthesis of a breast:
More information on this topic may be found in Chapter 16 of The Biology of Cancer by Robert A. Weinberg.
For more information about breast cancer visit the Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University.
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