Digital Mammography
A mammogram is a low dose x-ray
of the breast's internal structures, which can detect
abnormalities, or problems, with a woman's breasts.
The test is done by compressing the breast with a paddle
on a machine to generate pictures of each breast. Often,
a high-quality mammogram is the most effective tool
for the early detection of breast cancer.
The American Cancer society recommends
a baseline mammogram for all women at age 40, mammograms every
1-2 years after age 40, and yearly mammograms after age 50, all
in addition to monthly breast self-exams.
On the day of a digital mammography
screening, patients will be asked to avoid wearing perfume,
deodorant, lotion or powder because particles from such products
may be opaque to x-rays, therefore appearing on the mammogram
and causing unnecessary concern. Patients should also consider
limiting their caffeine intake prior to the exam because caffeine
can cause breast tissue to be more sensitive, and the mammogram
to be more uncomfortable.
It’s also important to note
that high-quality mammograms require compression to spread
out the breast tissue so it can clearly be seen. This pressure
can result in a few moments of discomfort during the exam,
but will not harm the breast tissue. Approximately 7-10 days
after a mammogram is done, patients will receive a letter
from the Imaging Center containing their test results.
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