Mammography is the process of using low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts. A mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women typically through detection of characteristic masses and/or microcalcifications. Like all x-rays, mammograms use doses of ionizing radiation   to create images. Radiologists then analyze the image for any abnormal findings

A mammogram is done to help screen for or detect breast cancer. Many small tumors can be seen on a mammogram before they can be felt by a woman or her health professional. Mammograms do not prevent breast cancer or reduce a woman’s risk of developing cancer. However, regular mammograms can reduce a woman’s risk of dying from breast cancer by detecting it in its early stages.

Digital mammography, or also known as full-field digital mammography (FFDM), is a mammography system in which the x-ray film is replaced by solid-state detectors that convert x-rays into electrical signals. These detectors are similar to those found in digital cameras. The electrical signals are used to produce images of the breast that can be seen on a computer screen or printed on special film similar to conventional mammograms. From the patient's point of view, having a digital mammogram is essentially the same as having a conventional film screen mammogram.

Computer-aided detection (CAD) systems use a digitized mammographic image that undergoes software analysis to look for areas of calcifications, densities or masses that may represent early cancer. There are many false positive findings on this technique, however, the information when combined with a breast imaging specialists knowledge improves the detection of small cancers.

Screening Mammography
Mammograms are a well tested exam that aid in the early detection of breast cancers because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them. Current guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the American Cancer Society (ACS), the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend screening mammography every year for women, beginning at age 40. Multiple large trials have shown the benefit to annual mammograms beginning at age 40.

Diagnostic Mammography Diagnostic mammography is used to evaluate a patient with abnormal clinical finding, such as a breast lump or lumps—that have been found by the woman or her doctor. Diagnostic mammography may also be done after an abnormal screening mammography in order to evaluate the area of concern on the screening exam.

Discuss any new findings or problems in your breasts with your doctor prior to scheduling your mammogram. In addition, inform your doctor of any previous biopsies, surgeries, hormonal use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
If your breasts are usually tender during your period, do not schedule your mammogram the week before your period. The best time for a mammogram is one week following your period. In addition please remember:
Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam. The residue left on your skin by these substances may interfere with the X-rays. If you are still having menstrual periods, you may want to have your mammogram done within two weeks after your menstrual period ends. The procedure will be more comfortable, especially if your breasts become tender during this time.
Describe any breast symptoms or problems to the technologist performing the exam.
If possible, obtain prior mammograms and make them available to the radiologist at the time of the current exam.

A Diagnostic Mammogram differs from a screening mammogram in that additional views of the breast are taken.

For your safety, please notify our scheduling department and technologists:

• If you believe you may be pregnant
• If you have breast implants

A certified technologist will perform your mammogram.  A mammogram is done by a radiology/ mammogram technologist. Our technologists are dedicated to breast imaging and take special care to make the experience as comfortable as possible. You will need to remove any jewelry that might interfere with the X-ray picture. You will need to remove your clothes above the waist, and you will be given a cloth or paper gown for the test. If you are concerned about an area of your breast, show the technologist so that the area can be noted. You usually stand during a mammogram; sometimes you may also be asked to sit or lie down, depending upon the type of X-ray equipment used. One at a time, your breasts will be positioned on a flat plate that will acquire the image. Another plate compresses your breast tissue. Very firm compression is needed to spread out the tissue and obtain a high-quality image. You may be asked to lift your arm or use your hand to hold your other breast out of the way. For a few seconds while the X-ray picture is being taken, you will need to hold your breath. Usually at least two pictures are taken of each breast, one from the top and one from the side.
You must hold very still and may be asked to keep from breathing for a few seconds while the x-ray picture is taken to reduce the possibility of a blurred image. The technologist will walk behind a wall or into the next room to activate the x-ray machine.
The examination process should take about 15-30 minutes. The X-ray plate will feel cold when you place your breast on it. Having your breasts flattened and squeezed is usually uncomfortable. However, it is necessary to flatten out the breast tissue to obtain the best images. You will be asked to wait – usually about five minutes – until the X-rays are developed, in the event repeat pictures need to be taken.