A mammogram is a test that screens the breasts for cancer or other problems. During a mammogram, specially-trained technologists take images of your breasts that can show small cysts, masses or other abnormalities that you or your doctor might not feel.
Mammograms are quick and safe. The exam uses a very low dose of radiation—even less radiation than a dentist’s x-ray. The test itself usually takes only 10 to 15 minutes.
To reduce the anxiety that accompanies testing and diagnosis, Advanced Breast Care Imaging provides patients with screening mammogram results before you leave.
If there’s a suspicious finding on your mammogram, you can have comprehensive follow-up testing at our facility on the same day.
Mammograms do not prevent breast cancer, but they can help detect and diagnose cancer in the early stages when it is more easily treated. The American Cancer Society and most doctors recommend that beginning at age 40, women should get a mammogram once each year. If you’ve had breast cancer or if someone in your family has had breast cancer, your doctor might recommend getting a mammogram before age 40.
What are the benefits of digital mammography?
Like a digital camera, digital mammography captures computerized images of the breasts. Traditional mammography uses x-ray films. These digital pictures are sharper, show more detail and allow our radiologists to zoom-in and get a closer look at certain areas of your breasts without having to take additional pictures.
Why are mammograms performed
-iiTo screen for breast cancer in women with no symptoms.
-iiTo help detect breast cancer in women who have symptoms including a lump, dimpling or puckering of the skin on the breast or nipple discharge.
-iiWhen an abnormality is found, to locate the area of suspicious breast tissue for closer examination (biopsy).
How should I prepare for my digital mammogram?
If you menstruate, try to schedule your mammogram within 10 days after the last day of your period. Do not wear any perfume, cream or deodorant on the day of the exam as the residue can interfere with the x-rays. Be sure to wear a comfortable, two-piece outfit and avoid wearing jewelry.
Tell your technologist if you:
-iiAre or could be pregnant or if you're breast feeding
-iiHave breast implants
-iiHave ever had a breast biopsy
What should I bring with me?
If you’ve had a mammogram performed at another facility in the past, bring the original films with you to Advanced Breast Care Imaging. Or, if you notify us in advance, we can request the films from your previous imaging facility on your behalf. Also bring the referral form from your doctor and your insurance card.
What happens during the test?
Your digital mammogram will be performed by a specially-trained mammography technologist. The digital pictures that are taken are reviewed by on-site board-certified radiologists (doctors who specialize in reading x-rays). After you remove your clothing and jewelry from the waist up, you will stand near the mammography unit. One at a time, your breasts will be placed on a flat plate.
Another plate will be pressed firmly down against the top of your breast. This helps to flatten the breast tissue so that the technologist can get the highest quality image of your breast. At least two pictures will be taken of each breast. Each picture only takes a few seconds. Women undergoing screening mammograms will receive results immediately.
For women receiving a diagnostic mammogram, if an abnormality is found, the radiologist might recommend additional testing which could include a breast ultrasound or breast MRI to help diagnose the lump or abnormality. These tests can usually be performed on the same day at Advanced Breast Care Imaging.
