What is Mammography?

• Mammography is specialized medical imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system to see inside the breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, aids in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.
• Screening mammography is a specific type of breast imaging that uses low-dose x-rays to detect cancer early – before women experience symptoms – when it is most treatable.
• Digital mammography, also called full-field digital mammography (FFDM), is a mammography system in which the x-ray film is replaced by electronics that convert x-rays into mammographic pictures of the breast. These images of the breast are transferred to a computer for review by the radiologist and for long term storage.

Why do I need Mammography?

Mammography used for the following purposes:
Screening:
• Breast cancer screening tools are used to find breast cancer in a person who doesnt have any warning signs or symptoms.
• Overall, mammography is the most effective screening tool used to find breast cancer in most women. It can find cancers at an early stage, when they are small and the chances of survival are highest.
Follow-up:
• Mammography can be used as a follow-up test when something abnormal is found on a screening mammogram or a clinical breast exam.

Any preparation needed?

• Inform your doctor of any prior surgeries, hormone use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
• Do not schedule your mammogram for the week before your menstrual period if your breasts are usually tender during this time. The best time for a mammogram is one week following your period.
• Don’t wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam.
• Inform your doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.
• Describe any breast symptoms or problems to the technologist performing the exam.
• Obtain your prior mammograms and make them available to the radiologist if they were done at a different location. This is needed for comparison with your current exam and can often be obtained on a CD.
• Wear loose clothing to your ultrasound appointment. You may be asked to remove jewelry during your ultrasound, so its a good idea to leave any valuables at home.