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Women's Imaging

What is a mammogram?

• A mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breast, using low-dose radiation.
• A mammogram is used to diagnose breast disease and other medical conditions of the breast.
• It is used for women (and men) who have current breast symptoms such as:
  • Lumps
    
  • Nipple discharge
  • Nipple changes
  • Skin changes such as redness, thickening, or "orange-peel" appearance.
  • Any changes in the breasts such as areas of "thickening".
  • Dimpling of the skin.
  • Inflammation of the breast.
  • Changes of the size or shape of the breast.
• A mammogram is also for women who have no symptoms or complaints at all.

1. The patient will be asked to undress from the waist up and given a gown to wear.
2. A highly trained and specialized technologist will take 2 x-ray pictures of each breast.
   • The first picture will be taken from above.
   • The second picture will be taken from the side, which ensures the axillary tissue in the under-arm area is visible.
   
3. The breast is placed on a platform with the patient standing and arms relaxed at the side.
4. Slowly and carefully the technologist will lower a plastic compression device on top of the breast so that compression holds the breast tight.
5. The patient will be asked to hold their breath for a few seconds while the exposure is made.
6. Compression is automatically (and quickly) released when exposure is complete.
7. Results will be sent to the patient's doctor within 3 days.
8. Results will be mailed directly to the patient within 7-10 days.

Can we talk about compression?

• Compression may produce temporary discomfort.
  • Schedule your mammogram 1 week after your period when breasts are least tender.
• Compression is necessary in order to obtain the best image with the least amount of radiation possible.
• It ensures the tissue is spread as thin as possible so small abnormalities won't be obscured by overlying breast tissue.
• Compression allows the Radiologist to view the miniscule changes which indicates that further evaluation may be necessary.
• Remember, these cancers can be as small as a sprinkling of salt!
• Compression is good.
  

What is a baseline mammogram?

• This is considered to be a patient's first mammogram.
• It is a mapping technique used to detect any changes in the breast tissue, as patients return each year for their digital screening mammogram.
  
• The American Cancer Society recommends women with no breast symptoms have their baseline mammogram by age 40 and should have a screening mammogram every year thereafter.

What is a screening mammogram?

• A screening mammogram is a screening tool used to detect early stages of breast cancer in women experiencing no symptoms.
• A screening mammogram is performed once a year in patients with no new concerns.
• Research indicates that mammograms can show changes in the breast that will not be felt by a patient or her physician for 2 to 4 years.

These images show the 4 views that are included in a screening mammogram.

What is a diagnostic mammogram?

• An x-ray examination of the breast used to diagnose unusual breast changes such as:
  • Lumps
    
  • Nipple discharge
  • Nipple changes
  • Skin changes
  • Dimpling of the skin
  • Inflammation
  • Changes in breast size or shape
• A diagnostic mammogram is used to evaluate abnormalities that are detected in a screening mammogram.
• Results will be given to the patient while the patient is in our clinic during their private consultation with the Radiologist.

What should I do before I arrive for my appointment?

•  Please obtain copies of any prior mammograms.
  • The Radiologists need these to ensure you get the best possible service, as they are checking for any breast changes, new findings, or asymmetry.
• Do not wear deodorant the morning of your exam. (We will provide you with some before you leave.)
  • Deodorant, talcum powder, or lotion under your arms or on your breasts can appear on the mammogram as calcium spots.
• Be prepared to describe any breast symptoms or problems to the technologist performing your exam. Inform her of any hormone use, prior surgeries, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
  • Remember, most women who are diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history of breast cancer.