What is Mammography?
Mammography is a process of using low-dose X-rays to examine the human breast and is used as a diagnostic as well as a screening tool. The goal of mammography is the early detection of breast cancer, typically through detection of characteristic masses and/or micro-calcifications. Mammography is believed to reduce mortality from breast cancer. No other imaging technique has been shown to reduce risk, but breast self-examination (BSE) and physician examination are considered essential parts of regular breast.
What to Expect During a Mammogram
If this is your first mammogram, we will conduct a screening mammogram, which serves as a “baseline” for comparison with future mammograms. Using compression, the technologist will take two views of each of your breasts.
Although you may experience slight discomfort from the compression, it is a necessary step in obtaining clear images of your breasts and only lasts a few seconds per picture.
What is Digital Mammography? How is it Different from Film/Screen Mammography?
Digital and film/screen mammography are similar in that both use X-rays and compression to produce an image or picture of the breast. With digital mammography, the images appear on the computer, rather than on X-ray film. This process is similar to the way a digital camera functions with the ability to enhance or magnify a particular area.
Is Digital Mammography “Better” than Film/Screen Mammography?
Results from the Digital Mammography Imaging Screening Trial (DMIST) were published in the September 16, 2005 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine. The study showed that digital mammography detected up to 28% more incidents of cancer than standard mammograms in younger women and those with dense breasts.
Note, not all insurance companies cover the cost of digital mammography. Please check with your insurance company regarding coverage prior to the appointment.
Breast Imaging Services
- Screening Mammogram – A routine yearly exam for women with no identified breast problems.
- Diagnostic Mammogram – Performed when there are current breast problems. This is a longer appointment and you will have your results when you leave.
- Additional Views – Sometimes required when there is a need for more information on an area of the breast.
- Breast Ultrasound – An imaging technique that uses sound waves to scan the breast to further check an identified area seen on film or felt by the patient.
- Cyst Aspiration – A procedure where a radiologist, under ultrasound guidance, inserts a fluid-filled mass and draws out the fluid.
- Ultrasound Guided Needle Biopsy – A procedure where a radiologist, guided by ultrasound, uses a needle to remove a small piece of tissue from a solid mass for further study.
- Stereotactic Guided Biopsy – A procedure to remove a small piece of tissue from the breast using computer guidance to accurately sample a breast abnormality.
- Needle Localization – A procedure performed prior to surgical biopsy to locate an area of the breast to be removed by the surgeon. The radiologist uses a hooked wire to mark the specific breast area to be removed. Either mammography or ultrasound images can be used to guide this procedure.
- Ductogram – A test to check for an abnormality in a milk duct with unusual discharge. The radiologist injects contrast dye into a milk duct where there is nipple discharge and this is followed by a mammogram. The radiologist can see any unusual duct problems on the film.
The Day of the Exam
Please arrive at the hospital’s Sinai Center for Women for your mammogram.
Please remember to bring the following items with you:
- Insurance card(s) and any referral/authorization forms.
- Picture identification.
- Prescription from your doctor.
- Past mammography films taken at a facility other than a DMC facility.
Please do not use deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts. We suggest you wear a two piece outfit, making it easier to remove only your upper clothing when changing into a hospital gown.
IMPORTANT: If you do not have your prescription and any needed referral/authorization forms with you when you arrive, you may need to reschedule your exam. Screening mammography may not be a covered benefit of your particular insurance carrier. We strongly encourage you to contact your insurance carrier to check your specific mammogram benefit coverage.
Your Results
Our board certified, fellowship-trained radiologists will interpret your mammogram or other breast imaging exam and send the results to your physician, usually within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are unable to keep your appointment, please call us at 1-877-MYTEST9 at least 24 hours in advance.