Screening saves lives.
Watch our video to learn more about our screening program.
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.
Local Clinics
The purpose of the breast clinic is to address the complex issues of breast health and breast cancer throughout diagnosis treatment and follow-up. With a well-coordinated, timely and compassionate interdisciplinary approach, optimal management of breast health and breast cancer within Horizon’s Saint John Area will be achieved.
The Breast Surgery Clinic is located on the 9th floor of the St. Joseph’s Hospital.
Oncology consultants are located at Saint John Regional Hospital’s Oncology Department.
Oncology hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
The breast clinic is dedicated to managing abnormalities of the breast. The breast clinic team works closely with you to ensure you get the best possible care.
Patient and Family Services
We have many services available to help you and your family before, during and after treatment.
- Look Good Feel Better Program
- Lymphedema Clinic
- Patient Oncology Education Classes
- Breast Health Nurse Navigator 1-506-632-5620
Treating and caring for people with cancer takes a well-coordinated team. Your team at the Breast Clinic is made up of health-care professionals working together for you and with you. Your team includes doctors, radiological technologists, nurses, physiotherapists, social workers, dietitians, volunteers and many others dedicated to helping you and your family.
- Physicians
- Breast Surgeons
- Radiologists
- Medical Oncologists
- Pathologists
- Radiation Oncologists
- Oncology Nurses
- Allied Health Professionals, Radiological Technologists, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Psychologists, Registered Dietitians, and Social Workers
To schedule an appointment for a mammogram call 632-5566.
The Katherine Wright Centre is part of Horizon’s multidisciplinary network of hospitals, health centres, services and programs leading the way in health promotion and education.
The Katherine Wright Centre now offers 3 core services: breast screening (mammograms), breast health services and colposcopy.
The Breast Screening Service at the Katherine Wright Center is one of 16 provincial sites where asymptomatic women between the age of 50 to 74 can call to schedule their own mammogram appointment. Asymptomatic women outside of this age category will require a physician’s referral for an appointment.
The Breast Health Clinic provides services to women and men of all ages who have breast problems or signs and symptoms of breast cancer. The colposcopy clinic provides services for women with an abnormal pap smear test. An examination is done using a microscope to identify the area from which the abnormal cells have originated.
Address: Professional Arts Building 100 Arden St., Suite 100, Moncton, N.B. E1C 4B7
Telephone:
- Breast Screening 506-855-2010
- Breast Health 506-857-5578
- Colposcopy 506-857-5268
Fax Number: 506-855-2018
Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Breast Health Clinic aims to address the complex issues of breast health and breast cancer through diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. With a well-coordinated, timely, and compassionate interdisciplinary approach, optimal management of breast health and breast cancer will be achieved.
100 Arden St., Suite 100
Moncton, N.B.
506-857-5578
