What is mammography?   Mammography (mammogram) is an x-ray exam of the breast. Most mammography is done as a baseline or screening exam. This exam is useful in diagnosis of breast disease and in detection of cancer. Most breast disease is not malignant or cancerous. If cancer is present, finding it early improves your chances of being treated successfully. If you or your doctor detect the presence of a breast lump, mammography may aid in detecting other lumps or a lump in the other breast which cannot be felt yet. Mammography is the most accurate method currently available to detect breast disease when no symptoms exist.

Who should have a mammogram?

For all women, mammography screening is crucial to the early detection and prevention of breast cancer. Annual mammograms and clinical breast examinations are recommended by the American Cancer Society for women older than 40 years. Women older than 20 years should be encouraged to do monthly breast self-examinations, and women between 20 and 39 years of age should have a clinical breast examination every three years. These guidelines are modified for women with risk factors, particularly those with a strong family history of breast cancer. The earlier the cancer is detected, the better a woman's chances for a favorable outcome.

Why did my physician order an MRI following my mammogram?

While mammography is considered the most accurate method currently available to detect breast disease when no symptoms exist, your physician may determine that an adjunctive examination is required to properly visualize your breast tissue. The density of your breast tissue may play a factor in your physician's determination whether to order additional tests, such as a breast MRI.

At DIS, you can rest assured that our services will be provided by our experienced team of caring technologists. At all of our facilities, our mammography services are accredited by the American College of Radiology.

The screening guidelines for the diagnosis of breast cancer are continually changing. Because of increased awareness of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and the use of screening mammograms, breast cancers are increasingly being diagnosed at earlier stages.

Click here to download and read the brochure, “What is MRI of the Breast?”

How do I prepare for my mammogram?

• Wear separates as you will need to disrobe from the waist up.
• Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder, lotion or perfume. The minerals in them may distort the x-ray image.
• Bring your insurance information and a picture I.D.
• Notify the mammography technologist if you are breast-feeding or if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.
• Inform the scheduler when you make your appointment if you have breast implants, a personal history of breast cancer or currently breast feeding.
• Please bring any old mammograms and reports that were done elsewhere to your appointment at Diagnostic Imaging Services.