Mammogram
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breast. It is used to detect and diagnose breast disease in women. Furthermore, it is used to screen for breast cancer in women 40 years or older earlier should a family history of breast cancer be present.
The examination usually does not take more than an hour. Set aside 2 hours for your appointment.
What are the different types of mammograms?
A routine screening mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to detect breast changes in women who have no signs of breast cancer. It usually involves two X-rays of each breast.
A symptomatic mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to diagnose unusual changes, such as lump, pain, nipple thickening or discharge, or a change in breast size or shape. It is a basic medical tool and is appropriate in the work-up of breast changes regardless of a woman’s age.
If you have had a previous mammogram at another facility, please bring the films to the procedure. The radiologist will compare your new examination with the previous examination. If you are a woman of childbearing age and there is a possibility that you are pregnant, be sure to inform the mammographer and your doctor.
What is the preparation for a mammogram, and what happens during the procedure?
A mammogram is usually performed outpatient. There is no specific preparation for the examination. However, please do not wear deodorant, powders, or lotions under your arms on the day of your examination, as these substances can affect the image quality.
This is the process during the mammogram:
Before the examination, describe any symptoms or problems to the mammographer. She will then document your clinical history.
You will get undressed from the waist up and be given a gown.
You will be positioned in a standing position at the mammography unit.
The breast is positioned between two mammography unit plates, and pressure is applied to compress the tissue. This may produce temporary discomfort. Breast compression is necessary to obtain the best image with the least amount of radiation possible.
The mammographer will ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds while she takes the X-rays.
The mammographer will step behind a protective window while she takes the image.
Each breast may be x-rayed at least two times, from above and from the side positions.
After the X-rays are taken, you will be asked to wait until the radiologist reviews the films to determine whether additional X-rays are necessary.
Sometimes, the radiologist may need further investigation, such as a breast examination and/or ultrasound.
What about the result?
Once the examination is complete, the X-rays will be studied by the radiologist and compared to any previous studies. A typed report of the findings will be forwarded to your doctor. Please contact your doctor for the results.