Forum Discussion
New NON-COMPRESSION Breast Screening available - cone-beam breast computer tomography (CBBCT)
I am amazed that this new Breast Screening option hasn't been mentioned here before - I've only just found out about it today! ....
Back in the 1980s when I had my 'first' breast cancer scare, I had a 'water scan' where I had to lie face down with my breast suspended thru a hole into liquid ..... it felt really weird! I was never offered it again.
(CBBCT isn't currently covered by Medicare yet - so there may be a charge of up to $300 for the screening ... but for those who HATE the discomfort and pain of a normal compression based mammogram ... this may be the one for YOU!)
Cone-beam computer tomography (CBCT) is a new type of 3D imaging that has been used previously in dental, orthopaedic and ENT scans.
It has now been applied to Breast Screening too, Cone-beam breast computer tomography (CBBCT)
https://www.oncologyrepublic.com.au/cone-beam-breast-ct-debuts-in-australia/5147
The difference between Cone Beam CT and Cone Beam Breast CT:
"Cone beam CT" (CBCT) refers to a broad X-ray technology that generates 3D images using a cone-shaped X-ray beam, while "cone beam breast CT" (CBBCT) is a specific application of this technology used for diagnosing breast cancer, offering advantages like no breast compression and better visualization of dense tissue. The core technology is the same—a cone-shaped beam—but the terms differentiate between the general technique and its particular use in breast imaging.
Cone Beam CT (CBCT)
General Technology:
A type of X-ray technology that produces 3D images by scanning with a cone-shaped X-ray beam.
Applications:
Widely used in dentistry to get detailed 3D images of teeth, jawbones, and surrounding structures.
Advantages:
Offers higher spatial resolution than conventional X-rays and can provide complete images of dental and maxillofacial areas, aiding in precise diagnosis and treatment planning.
Process:
A single rotation of the X-ray source and detector around the patient captures a series of images that are then reconstructed into a 3D volume.
Cone Beam BreastCT (CBBCT)
Specific Application:
A form of CBCT specifically designed for breast imaging.
Purpose:
To diagnose breast cancer in individuals with signs of the disease or abnormal mammography findings.
Advantages:
â—¦ No Compression: Unlike traditional mammograms, CBBCT does not require compressing breast tissue, which can be more comfortable.
â—¦ Reduced Distortion: It minimizes distortion and eliminates superimposed tissue that can obscure areas in mammograms.
â—¦ Improved Visualization: Offers more precise information, potentially improving detection and aiding in accurate treatment planning, especially for dense breasts or implants.
Current Status:
While FDA-approved for diagnostic breast imaging, it is also considered investigational and is being used in various regions worldwide
Breast cancer Cone-Beam CT (CBBCT) is a new, non-compressive breast imaging technology available in Australia, including Sydney, NSW, with facilities at more and more Radiology Practices coming soon.
Breast Health Imaging
(https://www.oncologyrepublic.com.au/cone-beam-breast-ct-debuts-in-australia/5147) and
Macquarie University Health
(https://www.mqhealth.org.au/services/find-a-service/macquarie-medical-imaging/services/cone-beam-ct)
The scan involves lying down, with the breast placed into a hole in the table for a quick, pain-free 3D scan that offers higher resolution images than MRI, especially for dense breasts and implants.
While not yet part of BreastScreen, it provides a more comfortable alternative to mammograms and is used with a contrast dye for enhanced diagnostic accuracy, with results sent to your referring doctor for further management planning.
What is it?
Cone-Beam Breast CT (CBBCT) is an imaging technology that uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam to create high-resolution, 3D images of breast tissue.
Pain-Free and Compassionate:
Unlike traditional mammograms, CBBCT scans do not involve breast compression, which makes it a more comfortable experience for many women, especially those who avoid screening due to discomfort.
How it Works:
Patients lie down on a table, and their breast is positioned in a hole for a quick scan (about 7 seconds per breast). Contrast dye may be used for greater visibility.
Key Advantages:
Better for Dense Breasts:
CBBCT is particularly effective for women with dense breasts or breast implants, as it provides better visibility compared to traditional mammograms.
Better for Dense Breasts:
CBBCT is particularly effective for women with dense breasts or breast implants, as it provides better visibility compared to traditional mammograms.
High-Resolution 3D Images:
It produces 3D images that are of higher resolution than MRI, leading to more accurate diagnosis.
Faster Scans:
Each breast is scanned in a very short time, resulting in quick results.
Availability in NSW
Breast Health Imaging (https://www.oncologyrepublic.com.au/cone-beam-breast-ct-debuts-in-australia/5147) has brought CBBCT to Australia for the first time, with services available for women with dense breasts and implants.
Other Providers:
Other private practices and services are also adopting this technology, with plans for broader availability in the future.
What to do if you would like to have CBBCT Scanning:
1 Consult Your Doctor: Discuss your breast health concerns with your doctor to see if a CBBCT scan is appropriate for you.
2 Referral: You will need a referral from your doctor to a facility offering this service.
3 Follow-Up: After the scan, return to your doctor to discuss the results and any necessary management plans.
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