Digital Mammography
Learn how Computer Aided Detection (CAD) for Mammography might save your life.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is a breast X-ray. It is used as a screening procedure to detect breast cancer in women with no breast problems and as a diagnostic tool in women with symptoms, previous breast surgery, or previous abnormal mammograms.
Mammography is a safe, low-dose x-ray picture of the breast that allows early detection of breast cancer. In a screening mammogram, images are taken from two angles of each breast. A diagnostic mammogram requires more angles and is used if there is a concern from the original screening mammogram, or for special circumstances, such as breast implants. To ensure accuracy and quality, all mammograms at Associated Radiologists are read by board-certified radiologists.
Screening vs. Diagnostic Mammogram
When you choose
Associated Radiologists for your imaging study, you can
expect the highest level of quality care. Our doctors
and technical staff, and our equipment and imaging
techniques, all exceed quality standards set by
regulatory agencies such as the
It is these guidelines that define
whether your mammogram will be performed as a
screening mammogram or a diagnostic
mammogram. A screening mammogram means that
you do not have any lumps, areas of pain, nipple
discharge, recent breast surgeries, implants, personal
history of breast cancer, or follow-up of previous
mammograms that have been in a shorter time frame of one
year. If you do have any of these symptoms or
histories, your mammogram will be performed as
diagnostic. Diagnostic mammograms are done under the
direct supervision of one of our radiologists who will
determine, at the time of your exam, if any additional
views are needed.
These practice guidelines are for
your benefit and assure that you will receive the most
appropriate mammogram for your breast health.
Insurance companies will pay at different rates for
screening and diagnostic mammograms. We are
pleased to assist you with any billing concerns.
However, we cannot bill a screening mammogram when
practice guidelines indicate that the proper study for
you is a diagnostic mammogram.
How do I prepare for the test?
Schedule the test for shortly after the end of menses. Wear comfortable 2 piece clothing. On the day of the procedure do not wear jewelry; do not use deodorant, talcum powder or lotion on your upper body. Flecks of the material can get on the compression plates and interfere with the results.
Why should I have a mammogram?
A high quality mammogram, with a clinical breast exam (an exam done by your health care provider), is the most effective way to detect breast cancer when it is most treatable. With a mammogram it is possible to detect breast cancer that cannot be felt.
When should I have a mammogram?
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women age 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health.
The ACS also recommends that women at high risk (greater than 20% lifetime risk) should get an MRI and a mammogram every year. Women at moderately increased risk (15% to 20% lifetime risk) should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of adding MRI screening to their yearly mammogram.
Please note the following important message:
Associated Radiologists joins with multiple medical organizations, including the American College of Radiology and American Cancer Society, in rejecting the November 16, 2009 screening mammography recommendations issued by the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These recommendations would reduce the lifesaving benefits of screening mammography. At this time, there is no good consensus arguments to change the screening mammography policies in the United States. Associated Radiologists will continue to recommend this lifesaving exam every year to their female patients over forty
What happens during the procedure?
Our facilities perform mammograms in a separate "Women's Center" which is a warm, pleasant and private environment. You will need to undress from the waist up and put on a gown that opens in the front. During your exam, you will be positioned in front of a special x-ray machine. An experienced, licensed technologist specially trained in mammography, will gently position your breasts on top of an image receptor and compress your breast from the top with a compression plate.
This brief pressure is necessary to flatten the breast in order to get the clearest picture. The compression also reduces the amount of radiation required. Each of your breasts will be pressed momentarily between an adjustable platform and a clear plate. For the mammogram to be as accurate as possible, there must be maximum compression on the breast during the procedure.
How long does the procedure take?
The mammogram takes about 15-20 minutes from the time you arrive at the facility. You may be asked to wait while the digital images are being reviewed. Then you may dress and resume your normal activities.
Associated Radiologists offers education services to every mammography patient, including a video of breast self-examination and a reminder "shower card." Our entire mammography program is FDA-certified through the American College of Radiology.
Ask your doctor or call us for more information on any procedure or exam.
To schedule an exam please call our scheduling line at 732-968-5160