Exam Safety: Answers to common safety questions
Are the procedures safe?
Yes. Digital mammography is safe. The radiation exposure is very low to the breast. In comparison the dosage of radiation is about the same as one would receive from flying across the country (or equal to the number of hours in the sun).
What if I’m pregnant?
If you are pregnant, you should inform the technologist about being pregnant or the possibility of pregnancy before the exam. Although pregnancy is a concern, the American College of Radiology and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists have determined that there is no single x-ray procedure that would result in a significant enough exposure to threaten the health of an embryo or fetus.
It’s reassuring to know that if you develop a breast lump during pregnancy it is unlikely to be breast cancer. But you should still bring any suspicious lump to the attention of your doctor and go through the proper tests to find out whether it might be cancer. Do not wait until you deliver or stop breast feeding to get the lump checked out. When examination can’t be postponed until after delivery, the fetus can be protected by the use of lead shielding and techniques that limit your exposure.
Are there reactions or allergies to some of the procedures?
Breast MRI requires the use of contrasts because it enhances the anatomy of the breast. Gadolinum is the contrast agent used and is administered through an IV. Fortunately, reactions to the contrast are very rare.
It is important to inform the technologist at the time of your examination or procedure if you have any history of reactions / allergies to a contrast agent such as medications or substances like latex. Some factors may increase the risk of a reaction. They include:
- History of reaction to contrast agents
- Asthma or severe allergies
- Sickle cell anemia
- Multiple myeloma, renal insufficiency and diabetes mellitus
What if I have anxiety or claustrophobia?
Some of our clients experience anxiety, and sometimes during an MRI, claustrophobia. Fortunately, the staff at the Carol Milgard Center can help ease your concerns throughout your exam. If you have any concerns about completing an MRI examination or other procedure, be sure to express them to the technologist.
Additional suggestions:
- Ease your concerns by reading up on what to expect and how to prepare for your exam.
- Visit the outpatient center to look at the imaging equipment and talk to a technologist or aide about your pending procedure.
- Bring your favorite CD if you’re having an MRI.
Will you give me an oral sedative?
Oral sedation is not recommended because most people are not accustomed to the affect of the drug. Because sedation drugs are not used on a daily basis it may affect your ability to concentrate or hold still during the procedure. In the instances where sedation is absolutely required, we must have your doctor or healthcare provider issue a prescription for sedation medication. You may also bring your own oral sedation medication, but it must be in its original container (so we can monitor dosage). Oral sedation requires that you come in 45 minutes to and hour before your exam so that you can complete registration before taking the medication. Oral sedation requires you make arrangements to have someone drive you home. Your driver will need to sign in prior to your appointment.
