Mammogram
Breast cancer will affect an average of one in eight women sometime in their lifetime. It is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in women, second only to lung cancer. Numerous studies prove that early detection is a vital component in the successful treatment of breast cancer.
WHAT IS A MAMMOGRAM?
Mammography uses a low dose of X-Ray to examine the breasts. Mammography continues to be the chief screening method for early detection of breast cancer. Mammograms screening is recommended yearly for asymptomatic women over 40 years of age. You will need an order from your doctor to have a mammogram at MedWise. Your doctor can fax the order or you can bring it when you come for your appointment. MedWise now accepts walk-in mammograms, no appointment necessary.
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WHAT IS CAD
Computer-aided detection (CAD) is a recent advance in mammography which helps the radiologist identify abnormalities within the breast. CAD technology reviews digitized mammograms and marks areas of suspected abnormalities. When using a CAD system, the radiologist always makes the final interpretation of the mammogram. CAD improves the rate of detection of small abnormalities of the breast, increasing the chances of successful treatment. Interpretation with CAD is similar to having a mammogram read by two radiologists.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
A typical mammogram consists of two views of each breast in which they are pressed firmly between two plates. Women with implants require four additional views to visualize tissue - using the Ecklund Technique (implants are pushed back and breast tissue is pulled forward).
The complete procedure takes only a few minutes, performed by a trained technologist under the supervision of a qualified radiologist. He or she will analyze the images, looking for specific abnormalities or changes related to cancer. A written report will then be sent to your doctor. On occasion, the doctor may order additional views or other techniques such as ultrasound or MRI.
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO PREPARE FOR A MAMMOGRAM?
If you have had a prior mammogram, it is extremely important that MedWise receive your most recent mammogram films prior to scheduling a mammogram. Your most recent exam will be compared to the exam scheduled at MedWise. MedWise can assist you with obtaining prior films and reports. Most insurance plans and Medicare require 365 days between screening examinations.
Do not use any perfumes, powders or deodorants the day of the test, as these products can create spots or artifacts on the films that can be misinterpreted and inhibit accurate breast imaging.
WHAT WILL THE MAMMOGRAM BE LIKE?
Your mammogram will be done in a quiet, private environment. You will be asked to remove your clothes from the waist up and any jewelry from around your neck. We will give you a gown to wear. There may be some discomfort during the procedure as each breast must be compressed to flatten the tissue in order to enhance breast imaging quality. You may request the use of the MammoPad, a single-use foam cushion to help alleviate some of the discomfort. Mammograms should not be scheduled during your menstrual period as breasts may be more painful at this time.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE MAMMOGRAM IS DONE?
There is no recovery period. You can immediately resume normal activities. You and your health care provider can be assured of learning the results of your mammogram within a very short time after your visit. If needed, follow-up exams are scheduled quickly to relieve anxiety.
HOW DO I GET THE RESULTS?
After your study is over, the images will be evaluated by one of our board-certified radiologists, with expertise in breast imaging. A final report will be sent to your doctor who can then discuss the results with you in detail.
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