3D mammography provides a different 'view' of the breast than traditional 2D mammography. With this technology, the 3D camera moves in an arc above the compressed breast instead of being stationary.
Because tomosynthesis takes X-rays at many different angles, it allows the physician to examine the breast structure 'layer by layer' and provides higher resolution images of different structures and features typically found in breast tissue. Changes or distortions within the breast can be seen more clearly with this method than with conventional 2D mammography, reducing the need for repeated views (resulting in less exposure to radiation) and the number of unnecessary biopsies.