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New Research Shows 3-D Mammograms Increase Cancer Detection

By Dr. Brian McDonough

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- 3-D Mammography or the technical term "digital breast tomosynthesis" is getting a very close look in medical circles.

According to researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, this technique was used to screen more than 26,000 women. Their research found that cancer detection rates increased from 3.51 to 5.24 per 1,000 women.

The basic premise is they use multiple X-ray images taken at different angles and the tomosythesis creates a visual reconstruction of the breast tissues.

Those who are looking at the study closely say more work needs to be done, but this is certainly an important step in the development of the technique and its analysis.

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