When it comes to your mammogram, what really matters?
It matters that you are regularly screened
Mammograms are an essential step in caring for your health and the American Cancer Society recommends that every woman over the age of 40 should have an annual screening. All women are at risk for breast cancer, regardless of symptoms or family history. Mammograms can detect potential problems often before they can be felt. This early detection greatly increases treatment options and the likelihood of successful recovery.
A mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breast, used to detect any abnormalities or changes in the breast. Mammography is a very safe procedure that uses low doses of radiation to produce high-quality images(see About Your Exam). Digital Mammography offers greater accuracy among women with dense breasts.
It matters who reads your results
Board certified radiologists who specialize in breast imaging have a higher likelihood of detecting potential problems early on than a general radiologist. At the Carol Milgard Breast Center our specialized physicians and technologists focus solely on breast screenings and diagnostics.
It matters where you’re screened
At the Carol Milgard Breast Center, we provide the newest digital mammogram technology, using specially designed digital detectors to produce an image that can be displayed on a high-resolution computer monitor. These images are transmitted and stored just like computer files and are instantly available. This allows the radiologist to read the exam shortly after and deliver timely results to your doctor.
Besides offering the most advance technology and specialized staff, the center is designed to have a spa-like feel. We offer plush robes, private lockers and a peaceful and respectful environment.
All mammograms at the Carol Milgard Breast Center are performed in a private suite by a female, certified technologist with advanced training in mammography. A typical screening mammogram consists of two views of each breast, one from above, and another from the side. Images are obtained by compressing your breast tissue between two plastic plates, also referred to as compression paddles. Find out more about how you should prepare for your digital mammogram.
From time to time a small percentage of women could be called back for additional imaging views. This does not necessarily indicate a problem, only that additional images are required to determine if further action is needed.
The Carol Milgard Breast Center is fully accredited in Mammography by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The ACR only grants the gold seal of accreditation when a breast center provides patients the highest level of image quality and patient safety.
Diagnostic Mammography
A diagnostic mammogram is provided when women present with any breast symptoms or concerns, such as a breast mass, palpable lump, nipple discharge, breast pain, or skin irritation. It is also used when a breast irregularity is viewed from a screening mammography exam.
A diagnostic mammogram is similar to a screening mammogram, and usually requires additional views or images. You will be provided with the results at the time of your diagnostic exam.
Wire Localization
Wire localization, also known as needle localization, helps a surgeon accurately locate abnormal tissue in the breast so it may be removed during surgery. It is performed the same day as a surgical breast biopsy.
Wire Localization takes about 20 minutes. The breast abnormality is located using mammography or ultrasound techniques. If mammography is used, you will be sitting for the exam; if ultrasound is used, you will be lying still on your back.
Once the abnormality is located, a radiologist will clean the area and inject a local anesthetic into the skin and deeper tissues to numb the area. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during this procedure. Using mammography or ultrasound, the radiologist will use a small needle to insert a guide wire next to the area of concern.
Once the wire is in place, you will be given a mammogram to document the position of the wire.
You will take a copy of these images with you to your scheduled biopsy. The wire is designed to be held securely in place until your surgical procedure is performed.
Find out more
Read our Fast Facts for answers to the questions below.
- What will my mammogram be like?
- What happens if an abnormality is spotted? Does that mean I have cancer?
- Why is a “baseline mammography” important?
- How often should I get a mammogram?
- Does a mammogram hurt?
- How much radiation am I exposed to?
- My doctor told me I needed to get more tests. Why?
- Will my breast implants “pop” if I have a mammogram?
- What is a mammogram with breast implants like?
- Should I have a mammogram if I’m breast feeding?
- Breast cancer doesn’t run in my family. Why do I need a mammogram?
- What are some of the risk factors associated with breast cancer?
- How accurate is a mammogram?
- What is CAD (computer aided diagnostics)?
- Why is early detection so important?
- What is a wire localization?
