What is a Mammogram?
A Mammogram is a highly sensitive X-Ray of the breast tissue using very low levels of radiation. The purpose of a Mammogram is to detect breast cancer and other breast conditions at their earliest possible stage, before it can even be felt or cause symptoms. This is when breast cancer is most treatable. A screening Mammogram is performed when there are no symptoms present. A diagnostic Mammogram is performed whenever the patient has any symptoms or if there have been questionable findings on a previous Mammogram screening. A baseline screening Mammogram should be performed when the patient is between 35 and 40 years old. If there is strong family history of breast cancer, yearly screening Mammograms should begin earlier. Your referring physician will recommend the proper schedule of screenings.
Why a Mammogram?
A Mammogram is the best way to non-invasively see inside your body and is ideal for:
Can anyone have a Mammogram?
No. Providing information about your medical condition and history is crucial. X-Rays emit a level of radiation into the body in order to obtain the images. Women who are or may be pregnant should not undergo any type of X-Ray. Inform your health care provider if you are pregnant or might be pregnant. A Mammogram is conducted on the female sex only. A Mammogram is a non-invasive, fairly painless procedure that can be uncomfortable but is tolerated by most patients.
What do I expect during a Mammogram?
A screening Mammogram involves two X-Rays of each breast, one from the top and one taken from the side. The breast is positioned on a flat surface and then compressed with another flat panel for several seconds. Adequate compression is essential in order to separate the numerous layers of breast tissue. If these layers are not compressed properly, more radiation is absorbed, creating images on the film that mask some of the abnormalities that may be present. Adequate compression should be uncomfortable but should not hurt or cause pain. The technologist is able to work with the patient to achieve good images with minimal discomfort. If after screening the Mammogram, the radiologist feels everything is normal, the patient will receive a letter informing her that she should continue with her normal yearly screening.
You may be asked to remove clothing and change into a patient gown or wear loose, comfortable clothing, as some articles of clothing interfere with the Mammogram.
You may be asked to avoid using body powders, lotions, or deodorants because they can produce a shadow on the film.
Most Mammograms take approximately 15 to 30 minutes to complete, depending upon the screening.
When will I get the results of my Mammogram?
A Board Certified Radiologist will review and evaluate your Mammogram images within 24 hours following your scan. The radiologist will provide your referring physician with an interpretation of the results of the Mammogram screening. Your health-care provider can then make a diagnosis and explain what the findings mean to you.