Mammography (Breast Screening and Diagnostic)

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast.

A screening mammogram is recommended for patients who do not have any known breast problem/symptom.

A diagnostic mammogram is done to provide information about lumps, skin changes – retraction, puckering, calcifications, and other breast abnormalities.

Preparing for a Mammogram

Avoid using the following in and around the breast area and under your arms:

• lotions
• creams
• perfumes
• deodorants

Describe any breast symptoms or problems to the technologist performing the exam.

Your mammogram will take approximately 15 to 30 minutes depending on the complexity of the examination.

The results of your breast screening mammogram will be sent to you as well as your primary care provider.

The results of your diagnostic mammogram will be sent to your primary care provider, so it is important that you stay in communication with their office for the results of your mammogram.

Breast Biopsy

A breast biopsy is a small sample of breast tissue that is removed with a special biopsy needle in the mammography or ultrasound department. The breast tissue sample is checked to see if cancer or other abnormal cells are present. The duration of the exam is 45 to 60 minutes. The results of your breast biopsy will be sent to your primary care provider.

Breast Needle Localization

Breast needle localization is a preoperative (before surgery) procedure which is done in the mammography or ultrasound department. It involves the placement of a fine wire/needle, which will act as a guide for the surgeon, at the area of concern in the breast. The duration of the exam is 45 to 60 minutes. The results of your breast needle localization will be sent to your surgeon as well as primary care provider.

Contrast Enhanced Spectral Mammography

A contrast enhanced spectral mammogram is a special diagnostic mammogram with contrast medium (X-ray dye) given prior to the X-rays being taken. It is done to provide information about increased blood supply to the breast and may be helpful in diagnosing breast cancer. You may require routine blood work prior to this exam.

Although rare, the intravenous (IV) contrast material involved in contrast enhanced mammography may cause medical problems or allergic reactions in some people. Most reactions are mild and result in hives or itchiness. In rare instances, an allergic reaction can be serious. Make sure to tell your primary care provider if you have had a prior reaction to contrast material (X-ray dye) during medical tests.

Tomosynthesis

This is an advanced form of breast Imaging that uses low-dose X-rays to detect cancer early when it is most treatable. The X-ray tube moves in an arc position over the compressed breast tissue thus taking multiple images of the breast from different angles. The computer will reconstruct the images obtained to create 3 dimensional (3D) images.

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