Mammography

Digital Screening Mammograms  |  Diagnostic Mammograms  |  Breast Ultrasound

Digital Screening Mammograms

Digital mammography is a detailed electronic picture of the breast. The most modern, state-of-the-art equipment is used. Digital mammography can detect early and highly curable cancers too small to be felt. The examination is performed by a specially trained mammographic technologist and an experienced radiologist reviews and interprets the mammogram providing a report to you and to you primary care physician.

Screening mammograms are performed on women without breast symptoms. Their purpose is the detection of early and curable breast cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends annual screening mammograms for all women after age 40.

Screening mammograms are appropriate for women who do not have a new breast lump, a history of prior cancer in a remaining breast, or clear or bloody nipple discharge. If any of these conditions apply, you should notify your health care provider regarding referral for a diagnostic mammogram.

A screening mammogram comprises two detailed digital images of each breast. The breast must be compressed for the highest quality image. The images are interpreted by a radiologist with specialized mammography training within a 24-hour period and results are sent to you and your referring physician by mail within ten days.

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Diagnostic Mammograms

Diagnostic evaluations are recommended for women who have a dominant or new breast lump, clear or bloody nipple discharge, prior cancer in a remaining breast or localized persistent local breast pain unrelated to menstrual cycles.

A diagnostic mammogram evaluation is performed in one visit, including all imaging studies required for a complete diagnostic evaluation. A Breast Health Center radiologist reviews your imaging studies and the results are given to you at the time of your visit.

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Breast Ultrasound

A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to evaluate palpable lumps, detect cysts and solid tumors not found by mammogram alone and may be performed at the time of a diagnostic mammogram evaluation if the radiologist determines that this test will add valuable information.

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