| What is Mammography? |
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Digital mammography, also called 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, the digital mammography is performed in the same way as the screen-film system.
Computer-aided detection (CAD) systems use a digitized mammographic image that can be obtained from either a conventional film mammogram or a digitally acquired mammogram. The computer software then searches for abnormal areas of density, mass, or calcification that may indicate the presence of cancer.
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| What are some common uses of the procedure? |
Mammograms are used as a screening tool to detect early breast cancer in women experiencing no symptoms and to detect and diagnose breast disease in women experiencing symptoms such as a lump, pain or nipple discharge.
Screening Mammogram
Mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast cancers because it can show changes in the breast 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 a baseline mammogram between the ages of 35-40 and subsequent screening mammography every year beginning at age 40. Research has shown that annual mammograms lead to early detection of breast cancers, when they are most curable and breast-conservation therapies are available.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) adds that women who have had breast cancer and those who are at increased risk due to a genetic history of breast cancer should seek expert medical advice about whether they should begin screening before age 40.
Diagnostic Mammogram
Diagnostic mammography is used to evaluate a patient with abnormal clinical findings such as a breast lump. Diagnostic mammography may also be done after an abnormal screening mammography in order to determine the cause of the area of concern on the screening exam. |
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| How should I prepare for a mammogram? |
It is recommended that you discuss any new findings or problems in your breasts with your doctor. In addition, inform your doctor of any prior surgeries, hormone use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
Do not schedule your mammogram for the week before your period if your breasts are usually tender during this time. Always inform your doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant. |
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» Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam. These can appear on the mammogram as calcium spots.
» Describe any breast symptoms or problems to the technologist performing the exam.
» Obtain prior mammograms and make them available to the radiologist at the time of the current exam.
One of our doctors will see you at the time of visit. If you schedule a diagnostic exam the doctor will examine the area of concern prior to your mammgram. Your results will be discussed with you. Additional imaging will be done on the day of you rmammogram if needed.
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