Diagnostic Mammography is used to evaluate a patient with abnormal clinical findings--such as a breast lump, pain, or discharge--that have been found by the woman or her doctor. Diagnostic mammography may also be done after an abnormal screening mammogram, or when there are unclear results, in order to evaluate the area of concern on the screening exam.

"Recall" mammograms are considered diagnostic but may be caused by compression differences, hormonal changes, or actual change in the breast tissue. Recalls should not be immediate cause for concern. The vast majority of these exams end up having normal results.

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. Diagnostic mammograms and needle localizations require additional time.

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.

This procedure can be performed at either Adventist Medical Center or here at Gresham Imaging Center.