Digital Mammography

Mammograms are used as a screening tool to detect early stage 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. Numerous studies have proven that early detection is the key to successful treatment of breast cancer. The reason that mammograms play a central role in the early discovery of breast cancer is because they can detect changes in the breast that may be initial signs of cancer, but are too small to be felt.

Digital mammography uses computers and specially designed digital detectors to produce an image that can be displayed on a high-resolution computer monitor, as well as transmitted and stored.

From a patient’s perspective, having a digital mammogram is similar to having a screen-film mammogram.  However, unlike screen-film mammography, digital mammograms produce images that appear on a monitor within a matter of seconds for review by the technologist and radiologist.  This makes the length of the exam shorter which means that less time is spent the breast imaging suite. Digital mammography also eliminates the need for patients to bring in films, and the problem of lost films, as all images are stored on a computer and can be transmitted electronically.

Before scheduling a mammogram, the American Cancer Society (ACS) and other specialty organizations recommend that you discuss any new findings or problems in your breasts with your doctor. In addition, you should inform your doctor of 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. The best time for a mammogram is one week following your period. Always inform your doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.

The ACS also recommends you:

A radiologist who is a physician specifically trained to supervise and interpret radiology examinations, will analyze the images and send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician.

If you are a screening mammogram patient, you will receive a result letter within 5 to 7 business days.  If you a diagnostic mammography patient, you will have a short consultation immediately following the mammogram regarding results, recommendations or further evaluations. You will also receive a written preliminary result letter at the end of your appointment.