Mammography
About the Examination
A mammogram is an x-ray procedure used specifically to X-ray the breasts. Every effort will be made by the Mammographer to ensure you are as comfortable as possible during the examination. Patients will be able to return to normal activities immediately after the procedure.
What conditions can be diagnosed by a Digital Mammography?
The mammography procedure is used by doctors and specialists to diagnose breast cancer, and various other diseases of the breast, for example, fibroid adenoma. An ultrasound examination may also be recommended to obtain further information. This is usually done when breasts are especially dense.
Why is a Mammography required?
Mammography can detect tumors that are too small to be felt and have reduced the rate of terminal cases of breast cancer in patients aged between 40 and 70.
Patients who are considered at high risk of developing breast cancer (i.e. due to a family history of breast cancer) may also be advised by their doctor to undergo regular testing.
Are there any risks?
There is a small amount of radiation used; however, the benefits outweigh the risks from the radiation.
Preparation
Patients are asked to:
- Let us know if you have had a previous mastectomy/ and or breast implants.
- Avoid using perfumes, deodorants, and antiperspirants or any cream and powders (these may show up on the x-ray images making them more difficult to read).
- Bring any previous mammograms
What will happen when you arrive for your mammogram?
Your details will be checked, and your examination carried out by a radiographer who has specialized in breastwork or more commonly called a Mammographer. You will be asked to undress from the waist up. It is recommended that you wear a loose, comfortable, two-part outfit. The whole appointment takes less than half an hour and the actual mammogram will take around 5- 10 minutes.
