Mammography
Mammograms use low dose x-rays to detect cysts, cancers and other abnormal growths in the breasts. A mammogram can show a developing breast tumor before it is large enough to be felt. A special type of x-ray machine is used only for this purpose.
Select a procedure from the following list.
MammographyFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is it like to have a mammogram?
During the procedure, the breast is compressed by a dedicated mammography machine. Both front and side images of the breast are taken. The technologist will place your breast on a special cassette and gently compress it with a paddle (often made of clear Plexiglas or other plastic). This compression flattens the breast to even out the tissue and holds the breast still to create a better quality image. The breast compression might cause mild discomfort, but it passes quickly.
The technologist will step behind a special glass shield during x-ray exposure. You will be asked to hold your breath and remain perfectly still for a few seconds while the technologist makes the x-ray picture.
After all of the necessary views are taken, the technologist will ask you to get dressed and wait while the x-ray images are reviewed.
The time needed for a mammogram depends on the type of procedure being conducted. Typical examination times are:
Screening mammogram: 20 minutes. A screening mammogram is a routine examination performed when there are no signs or symptoms of breast disease. Screening mammography includes two views of each breast. Computer aided detection CAD) assists in detecting small calcifications and other signs of early cancer.The radiologist does not review screening mammograms while you are at the office. If additional imaging is required, you will be contacted and scheduled for a return visit.
Diagnostic mammogram: 30 to 60 minutes. A diagnostic mammogram is performed when the patient has signs or symptoms of breast disease such as pain, mass, discharge, tissue thickening, or nipple inversion. Diagnostic mammography starts with two views of each breast. The images are reviewed by the radiologist while you are at the office. If more information is needed additional views and/or an ultrasound may be performed during your visit.
How should I prepare for a mammogram?
- Bring a copy of the order for the procedure from your referring physician.
- To help minimize discomfort during mammography, schedule your mammogram to take place one week after your period (when breasts are less tender).
- Bring your previous mammogram with you. Also bring a list of where and when you had earlier mammograms.
- Wear a two-piece outfit so you will only have to remove your top and bra for the examination. A blouse which buttons in the front is better than a pullover top because the blouse can easily be removed.
- Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder, lotion, or perfumed powder on the day of your examination as these can show up on the X-ray as calcium spots.
- Any jewelry worn (especially earrings or necklaces) should be easily and quickly removable.
- Tell the technologist performing the examination if you are experiencing any breast symptoms or problems. Be prepared to discuss with the mammography technologist any prior surgeries, hormone use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
- Women should always inform their doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
What should I do after a mammogram?
When your examination is over, you may resume your normal daily activities. A specially trained radiologist will interpret your images and send the results to your doctor. Your doctor will review the results with you.
Other types of breast procedures:
A ductogram, also called a galactogram, is a special type of mammogram used for imaging the breast ducts. It can aid in diagnosing the cause of abnormal nipple discharges. For a ductogram, the breast to be examined will be checked for a discharge and cleaned with an alcohol swab. The skin will be anesthetized and the radiologist will insert a needle into the duct in question. Contrast material will then be injected into the duct (you may experience some short, mild discomfort during the injection). X-ray images are taken of the contrast-filled duct. This examination typically takes 45 to 60 minutes.
For a stereotactic biopsy, it is best to have someone with you who can drive you home. It is possible that you will be given medication that would inhibit your ability to drive. You will have your temperature and blood pressure taken. You will be asked to lay face-down on a special x-ray table with the breast to be biopsied protruding through an opening in the table. After the application of some mild compression, x-ray images will be obtained to determine the exact area for biopsy. Local anesthesia will be administered and tissue samples obtained using a biopsy instrument. After the tissue sampling is complete, a very small metal clip may be inserted into your breast to mark the exact location of the biopsy. Your skin will again be cleaned and bandages applied, along with ice (you may be asked to keep the area iced for 8 hours). Lab results from the tissue samples will be available to your referring physician in 2-3 working days. This examination typically takes 45 to 60 minutes.
For a needle localization biopsy, you will be seated in a special chair and positioned as needed to perform the procedure. The area to be examined will be identified using x-ray images. Your skin will be anesthetized prior to the insertion of a small needle. After the needle is in the exact area of concern, a fine wire is passed through the needle, and then the needle is removed. Follow-up x-ray images are taken to document the correct location of the wire. Bandages and gauze are used to secure the wire and cover the entire area. You will then be escorted back to the Surgery Center for your surgery appointment. While you are in surgery, tissue that is removed will be brought back for a "specimen radiograph" to ensure that the area of concern was indeed removed. This examination typically takes 30 to 45 minutes.
For cyst aspirations you will either be asked to sit or lie down. Your skin will be cleansed and a local anesthetic administered by the radiologist. A needle will be inserted under ultrasound guidance. After the needle is within the cyst, fluid from the cyst is withdrawn. This fluid might be sent to a laboratory for analysis. This examination typically takes 20 to 30 minutes.
28 White Bridge Road
Suite 111
Nashville, Tennessee
37205
Phone (615) 356-3999
Fax (615) 353-0462
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