Mammogram

What is a screening mammogram?

A mammogram is an X-ray test of the breast (mammary glands) used to screen for breast problems, such as a lump.

Why is it done?

A mammogram is done to help screen for or detect breast cancer. Many small tumors can be seen on a mammogram before they can be felt by a woman or her health professional.

Mammograms do not prevent breast cancer or reduce a woman's risk of developing cancer. However, regular mammograms can reduce a woman's risk of dying from breast cancer by detecting it in its early stages.

How do I prepare?

On the day of your mammogram, do not use any deodorant, perfume, powders or ointments on your breasts. The residue left on your skin by these substances may interfere with the X-rays.

If you are still having menstrual periods, you may want to have your mammogram done within two weeks after your menstrual period ends. The procedure will be more comfortable, especially if your breasts become tender during this time.

How is it done?

A mammogram is done by a radiology/mammogram technologist. You will need to:

·         remove any jewelry that might interfere with the X-ray picture

·         remove your clothes above the waist; you will be given a cloth or paper gown for the test.

If you are concerned about an area of your breast, show the technologist so that the area can be noted. You usually stand during a mammogram; sometimes you may also be asked to sit or lie down, depending upon the type of X-ray equipment used.

One at a time, your breasts will be positioned on a flat plate that will acquire the image. Another plate compresses your breast tissue. Very firm compression is needed to obtain high-quality pictures.

You may be asked to lift your arm or use your hand to hold your other breast out of the way.

For a few seconds while the X-ray picture is being taken, you will need to hold your breath. Usually at least two pictures are taken of each breast, one from the top and one from the side.

How long does it take?

You may be in the mammogram clinic for up to an hour; the mammogram itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will be asked to wait; usually about 5 minutes; until the X-rays are developed, in the event repeat pictures need to be taken.

In some clinics and hospitals, X-ray pictures can be viewed immediately on a computer screen (digitally).

How does it feel?

The X-ray plate will feel cold when you place your breast on it. Having your breasts flattened and squeezed is usually uncomfortable. However, it is necessary to flatten out the breast tissue to obtain the best images.

What happens after the test?

A radiologist will interpret your exam. The technologist who administers the test cannot interpret or discuss what they are viewing while performing the exam. A report will be sent to your physician's office to discuss results.

What Is a Diagnostic Mammogram?

A diagnostic mammogram is used to evaluate abnormalities detected on a screening mammogram or because of special circumstances.

Why Is It Done?

A diagnostic mammogram is an X-ray test used to diagnose unusual breast changes, such as a lump, pain, nipple discharge, change in breast size or shape or previous breast cancer.

How Is It Done?

A diagnostic mammogram differs from a screening mammography in that additional views of the breast are taken. One at a time, your breasts will be positioned on a flat plate that will acquire the image. Another plate compresses your breast tissue.

Very firm compression is needed to obtain high quality pictures. You may be asked to lift your arm or use your hand to hold your other breast out of the way.

How Does a Diagnostic Mammogram Feel?

The X-ray plate will feel cold when you place your breast on it. Having your breasts flattened and squeezed is usually uncomfortable. However, it is necessary to flatten out the breast tissue to obtain the best images.

What Happens After the Diagnostic Mammogram?

A radiologist will interpret your exam because the technologist who administers the test cannot interpret or discuss what they are viewing while performing the exam. A report will be sent to your doctor's office to discuss results.

Understanding Your Mammogram Results

After Your Test

A dedicated breast radiologist interprets all of our tests. The technologist who administers the test cannot interpret or discuss what they are viewing while performing the exam. A report will be sent to your physician’s office to discuss results.

The following tests help diagnose a number of breast conditions, including breast cancer. The tests below are listed in the order in which they most occur, but in some cases, the order of tests may vary.

For questions or concerns about any of the following tests, please consult with your physician.

Screening Mammogram

Starting at age 40 all women who have breast implants or have not had breast cancer receive a screening mammogram.

Need more views after your screening mammogram?

If something on your mammogram needs a closer look additional images may be taken. This is necessary to decide if you need to go on for further tests.

Diagnostic Mammogram

All women who present with symptoms or have had breast cancer receive this type of mammogram. It is similar to a regular mammogram, but we take more views, so it takes a little longer.

Ultrasound

If your mammogram identifies an area of concern or you have a palpable lump, an ultrasound will determine if the area is a water filled (cyst) or a solid (mass). It also determines if we need to do a biopsy or an aspiration of a cyst.

Remember!

An estimated 80 percent of all breast biopsies come back negative, so although it is not the most pleasant experience to go through, these tests can save your life.

Biopsy

The findings in the previous tests will be the determining factor on the type of biopsy you will be having. Before your biopsy, our staff will explain why you are getting a specific type. And prior to your biopsy, our Nurse Navigator will meet with you to answer any questions. Biopsy results will be sent to your physician.

Breast MRI

Not all women will be asked to have an MRI. This is helpful for women whose previous tests show something that is inconclusive. A Breast MRI helps us see more detail. It maybe performed on women with fibrocystic breasts or with dense tissue, or a strong history of breast cancer in the family or to stage for breast cancer.

Biopsy Results

Until we receive the results, do we know whether or not you have breast cancer. Your physician will explain your results to you. Most often, you will receive good news. But if not, and your results are positive for breast cancer, you, your physician and our Nurse Navigator are available to help you find the right team of physicians (Surgeon and Oncologist) who can put together the right treatment plan for you.