What is a mammogram
A mammogram is an imaging exam that evaluates the breast utilizing low radiation dose x-rays. It is considered the gold-standard examination for evaluating for breast cancer in women over the age of 40.
Tomosynthesis (commonly known
as 3-D mammography)
- 3-D mammography is a newer type of mammogram technology that has been shown to lower the chance of being called back for additional follow-up breast imaging exams.
- 3-D mammography detects more breast cancers and can be especially helpful in women with dense breasts.
- All of our breast imaging centers now offer 3-D mammography as the standard mammogram exam
Screening Mammograms
- Screening mammograms are recommended by the American Cancer Society to begin annually starting at the age of 40-45 for average risk women
- These screening exams are meant for women without any symptoms or concerns regarding their breast health.
- When performed effectively and routinely, screening mammograms have been shown to detect cancers at a smaller size and therefore are less likely to spread beyond the breast.
Set up your screening reminders today.
Diagnostic Mammograms
- Diagnostic mammograms are performed in patients with any clinically significant concerns regarding their breast health.
- Diagnostic mammograms are a part of a comprehensive evaluation of the breast which may include additional breast imaging exams and clinical evaluations by a breast radiologist.
- If you have any questions in regards to qualifying for a diagnostic mammogram, please contact your clinician.
What to expect
- While the patient is standing or sitting, the imaged breast will be gently compressed with an imaging paddle
- The patient will be asked to hold their breath for a 3-5 seconds while the mammogram image is obtained
- Multiple imaging projections of each breast will be obtained depending on the reason for the exam.
- The images are then sent to the interpreting breast radiologist for review and generation of a radiology report, which will be sent to the referring clinician.
