3D Model Making

3D Mole Mapping:

3D mole mapping is an advanced dermatological technique that provides a comprehensive assessment of your skin’s moles and lesions. At our clinic, we utilize Vectra WB360 technology, which captures high-resolution 3D images of your skin, enabling detailed monitoring of changes over time.

No referral is needed to book this appointment. Please note, Medicare and provincial health plans do not cover the cost of this imaging technology, but some private insurance plans may cover part or all of the expense.

How Does Vectra WB360 Technology Work?

1. Imaging Process: The Vectra WB360 system uses a specialised camera to take multiple images of your skin from various angles, creating a complete 3D model.
2. Analysis: Our dermatologist will analyse the 3D images for irregularities or changes in the size, shape, or colour of your moles, providing a detailed assessment.
3. Ongoing Monitoring: Follow-up appointments can be scheduled to compare new images with previous ones, ensuring any changes are closely monitored.
4. Suspicious lesion removal: Should you have any suspicious lesion that need surgical removal, our team is ready to schedule this procedure at a later date or help coordinate with your local dermatologist.
5. Benefits of 3D Mole Mapping with Vectra WB360:
   • Early Detection: The high-resolution imaging allows for early identification of potential skin cancers by providing a detailed baseline for comparison.
   • Comprehensive Tracking: Vectra WB360 offers a complete overview of all moles, making it easier to spot changes over time.
   • Non-Invasive: The procedure is painless and does not require incisions or biopsies (unless a suspicious lesion is identified).

    

   This technology is ideal for individuals with:

   • Personal or family history of skin cancer.
   • Multiple moles or atypical moles (dysplastic nevi).
   • Fair skin, a history of sunburn, or extensive sun exposure.
   • Previous use of tanning beds.
   • Concerns about changes in existing moles or the appearance of new ones.

   While 3D mole mapping with the Vectra WB360 is a highly effective tool for monitoring skin health and detecting early signs of skin cancer, it does have certain limitations:

   1. Surface-Level Imaging: The Vectra WB360 captures detailed images of the skin’s surface but does not provide insight into deeper layers, where some skin cancers may develop. It is important to remember that deeper cancers may not always be detected with surface imaging alone.
   2. Image Quality Matters: The accuracy of the 3D mapping depends on the quality of the images taken. Factors such as skin texture, lighting, or patient movement during the scan can impact the precision of the results.
   3. Not a Replacement for Biopsy: While 3D mole mapping is excellent for tracking changes in moles over time, it is not a diagnostic tool on its own. Any suspicious or changing moles will still require a clinical evaluation and, if necessary, a biopsy for confirmation.
   4. Cost and Availability: The Vectra WB360 is a state-of-the-art imaging system that may not be available at all practices due to its cost. Depending on your insurance, this advanced technology may not always be covered by your plan.
   5. Risk of False Positives/Negatives: As with any imaging technology, there’s a possibility of false positives (identifying benign moles as problematic) or false negatives (failing to detect early signs of melanoma or other skin cancers). Regular skin exams with a trained physician remains essential.
   6. Limited to Visible Moles: The system is designed to capture images of visible moles, so it cannot monitor those that are hidden or hard to access, such as on the scalp, under nails, or in other difficult-to-see areas.
   7. Ongoing Monitoring Required: For optimal results, regular follow-up scans are recommended to track any changes in your moles over time. Typically, this means returning for scans once a year or as directed by your dermatologist.
   8. Cannot Detect Microscopic Changes: While 3D mole mapping tracks changes in size, shape, and texture, it cannot detect cellular changes that may indicate skin cancer, which is why it is important to complement this technology with routine skin exams
   9. Despite its limitations, 3D mole mapping with the Vectra WB360 is a valuable tool for early detection and ongoing monitoring of skin health. It should be used alongside regular skin exams and the expertise of a trained dermatologist.If you’re interested in learning more about this advanced technology or scheduling an appointment, contact our clinic today.