A mammogram is a safe x-ray procedure that films the internal tissues of your breasts. Mammograms are relatively simple examination That is performed to determine irregularities within the breast. The mammogram can reveal areas of the breast too small or deep to feel which may or may not require further investigation.
Yes, It is the best tool that your doctor has for early detection of breast cancer. One out of every eight women in the United States will be stricken with breast cancer in their lives. The sooner detected the easier and more successfully it can be treated. Your first mammogram will serve as a baseline study, which will be used for comparison in future mammograms.
The R2 detection system acts as a "spell checker" for medical images. The technology uses enhanced digitized images to analyze mammograms, highlighting areas that may have otherwise gone undetected. This technology assists Radiologist in creasing the rate of early detection and reducing false negative results. Radiologists specializing in mammography interpret our mammograms. Summit Radiology interprets over 80% of all mammograms performed in Fort Wayne and surrounding areas.
This should be discussed with your physician, but the American Cancer Society recommends the following:
Not matching any of these descriptions doesn't mean you are not at risk for breast cancer. OVER 80% OF WOMEN WHO DEVELOP BREAST CANCER DO NOT HAVE SIGNIFICANT RISK FACTORS OTHER THAN BEING A WOMEN AND GROWING OLDER.
If you have had a mammogram before, we will need your previous films for comparison. We will arrange to have your previous films sent to our hospital. A medical history form will be filled out to help the radiologist interpret your examination. We will tech you the proper methods for self-breast examination, and you can review the videotape dealing with these methods. You will receive a low-dose mammogram by one of our registered mammography technologists. All technologists at our hospital are registered in mammography.
A mammogram may be uncomfortable, but it is not painful. The equipment used in mammography compresses the breasts in order to receive the best picture and date possible. This compression lasts approximately 5 seconds for each picture taken. It also makes the procedure much safer because the radiation you absorb in much less, therefore, a low-dose x-ray. Two pictures of each breast are standard.
Please do not wear body powder of underarm deodorant to your appointment. The chemical within these contain aluminum chlorhydrate that can affect the reading. Schedule an appointment during the two weeks following your menstrual period. Your breasts tend to be more tender before menstruation, so coming in will make the procedure more comfortable for you. Also, for the same reason, you should avoid any product containing caffeine for two weeks before your exam.
Postmenopausal women may also refrain from caffeine if comfort is an issue for them.
Your finished mammogram will be sent to Summit Radiology R2 site and returned the following day. At that time if further diagnostic testing is required, one of our Radiology technologists will contact you to set a follow up procedure. At this appointment, a Radiologist will be available to provide you with a final interpretation. If your mammogram is normal, a report will be sent to you and also to your physician within 2-3 days.
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