For more patient information on Digital Breast Tomosynthesis
Mammography Exam Prep
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What is mammography?
Mammography is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray to examine breast tissue. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases.
Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) Mammography
MIC uses Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) for all mammograms. DBT is an advanced form of mammography that combines a low-dose x-ray system and computer reconstructions to create three-dimensional images of the breasts.
DBT has been shown to improve cancer detection rates while reducing the number of patients recalled for additional imaging and biopsies.
Screening Mammography
Mammograms are used as a screening tool for early detection of breast cancers in women experiencing no symptoms. Screening mammography can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or practitioner can feel them.
Diagnostic Mammography
Diagnostic mammography is used to evaluate a patient experiencing symptoms such as a breast lump, pain or nipple discharge. Diagnostic mammography may also be done after an abnormal screening mammography to evaluate the area of concern on the screening exam.
What to expect
- When you arrive for your appointment, you will be asked to change into a gown.
- To achieve the clearest picture, the technologist will position your breast on a compression plate and the machine will gradually compress your breast between two x-ray plates. This may cause you some temporary discomfort but it is important to flatten out the breast to get the clearest picture of the breast tissue using the least amount of radiation.
- This procedure takes only a few seconds for each image, and any tightness or discomfort you may feel usually disappears immediately after the compression is released.
- After the radiologist has a chance to thoroughly study your images, a complete report will be sent to your referring practitioner, usually within 24 hours.
*Diabetic patients who use a glucose monitoring device should check with their manufacturer to see if they recommend removing their device before low-dose radiation exposure.