Mammography is an x-ray examination of the breast using very low levels of radiation. It is currently the best available tool for detecting breast cancer when no symptoms exist. A mammogram can discover breast cancer before a lump or mass can be felt, and early detection enables more treatment options. However, a mammogram can also reveal something that is not cancerous.

Procedure

The procedure involves two x-rays of each breast, one from the side and one from above. Compression of the breast during the x-ray procedure is required. Compressing the breast reduces the radiation and improves the image by bringing the breast structure closer to the film. Squeezing of the breast may be uncomfortable but usually only lasts a few seconds. A female registered radiologic technologist who is an expert in the operation of the x-ray equipment performs the procedure itself. Once the images have been taken, a radiologist, (a physician specializing in x-ray diagnosis) studies and interprets the films.

Post Exam

The radiologist will study your examination and prepare a dictated report, which will be sent to your physician. Your physician will review the radiologist's findings and communicate the results to you. In some cases your physician may recommend a tissue diagnosis called a biopsy.

For further information click here.

Computer aided detection (CAD) technology works much like a spell checker on all screening mammograms, reviewing a patient’s film after the radiologist has already made an initial interpretation. Studies show that CAD analysis improves the detection of early cancer by as much as 20 percent. If the software detects any abnormalities on the mammogram film, it marks them. The radiologist then reviews the marked areas to determine if the areas are suspicious and require further evaluation, such as a diagnostic mammogram.