Resources
Learn
About Your Procedure
MRI
Breast
MRI
CT
Digital Mammography
Screening
Diagnostic
Ultrasound
Bone Densitometry
General
X-ray
FAQ's
Registration
MRI
CT
Digital Mammography
Ultrasound
Bone
Densitometry
Facility
Information
Our Mission & Values
Our Staff
Our Equipment
Health Plans
Other Services
Adventist
Health Stories
|
Learn About Your
Screening Mammography
Digital Mammography captures
images of the breast using low doses of radiation. A radiologist
adjusts these images using a computer to achieve optimum viewing of all
areas of the breast.
Breast cancer is the second-leading cause of death from cancer among
women in the United States, following lung cancer. However, great
strides in early detection and improved treatment have decreased breast
cancer deaths. Mammography plays a key role in early detection. Through
mammography, your doctor can detect breast cancer nearly one to three
years before you might actually feel a lump in your breast.
Before
Your Mammogram: When making your appointment, please notify the
scheduler if you have implants or large breasts, or if you are unable
to stand on your own, so that additional time can be allotted for your
exam. Please do not use perfume, powder, or deodorant on the day
of your exam. If you forget, wipes will be provided to remove
deodorant.
Time
Required for Your Mammogram:
Screening mammograms generally last 15 minutes.
Who
Performs Your Mammogram: Radiologic Technologists certified in
Mammography will perform your exam.
During
Your Mammogram: The breast is positioned on a flat surface as a
compression panel is lowered over it (compression is necessary to
produce an optimal breast x-ray). A minimum of four pictures are taken
for a screening mammogram, although additional images are sometimes
needed to complete the study. Our staff is dedicated to making the
process as comfortable as possible for the patient which is why we use
the MammoPad®
for all exams. This foam pad helps to properly position the breast and
provides a cushion between the patient and the mammography machine.
After
Your Mammogram: A radiologist will analyze the images obtained
during your mammogram and send a written report to your doctor,
typically within 48 hours. The radiologist will contact your
doctor immediately if any serious abnormality is found.
|
