Services | Radiology | Mammography

Mammography


1. Exam Description


Breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer to strike women. The earlier breast cancer is discovered, the better the chance for a cure. The war against breast cancer is a three-pronged attack that includes breast self-examination, periodic physical examination by your physician, and mammography. Mammography is an x-ray examination of the breast. Two or three views of each breast are obtained. The dose of x-rays given to the breast is as low as possible.

2. Preparations


On the day of your mammogram please refrain from using powders, deodorants, or lotions. Many lotions and deodorants contain aluminum, which can show up on the image. Also, please wear a two-piece outfit. During the examination it is necessary to compress the breast. This can cause moderate discomfort in some women. The compression is brief but is necessary to minimize motion and radiation dose to the breast while maximizing image quality.

3. Patient Suggestions


The American Cancer Society and the American College of Radiology, after considerable study and deliberation, have formulated the following guidelines for Breast Cancer detection:

1. Monthly breast self-examination
2. Annual physical examination by your physician, and
3. Annual mammogram beginning at age 40, unless specific risk factors or symptoms dictate otherwise

4. Exam Results


A report of the Radiologist’s findings will be sent to you and your physician within 2 to 3 days of your exam. At the time of interpretation, if additional imaging is necessary, you will be contacted directly by an imaging center staff member.