Digital Mammography Patient Information

Mammography is a medical test that uses special X-ray images to detect abnormal growths or changes in breast tissue.

A mammogram can provide base information that will allow your doctor to make a comparison at a later date. As part of a regular physical examination, a mammogram can be used as a screening tool to detect breast cancer in its early stages, before it can be found through a physicial examination.

If there is a change in your breasts, a mammogram can help your physician determine if additional testing is required.

Does a Regular Mammogram Replace Self-Exams?

No. Mammograms cannot detect all breast cancers, especially if you are young and have dense breast tissue. You should begin performing self-examinations monthly beginning at age 20. In addition, your healthcare provider should do breast exams every three years beginning at age 20, and every year once you turn 40.

How Often Should I Have a Mammogram?

In general, you should have a baseline mammogram between ages 35 and 40, and a screening mammogram every year after age 40. Ask your physician for specific information.

If you are at a greater risk for breast cancer, your doctor might recommend an alternate schedule. Risk factors include:

• A personal history of breast cancer
• An immediate family member developed breast cancer before age 50 or after menopause
• A prior breast biopsy with pre-cancerous changes
• Over the age of 50
• Use of oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy or alcohol (2 or more drinks per day)
• Early menstrual onset, late onset menopause

What Can I Expect?

A qualified technologist will perform the mammogram. The technologist will ask you to remove all clothing above the waist and will give you a hospital gown to wear. The technologist will ask you to stand (if you are unable to stand, you may sit) in front of an X-ray machine and will place your breast between two radiographic breast supports. The supports will be pressed together, gently flattening your breast to provide the clearest picture possible with the least radiation dose. You may feel some discomfort, but it will only last for a few seconds. If you feel there is too much pressure, tell the technologist.

The technologist will normally take two images of each of your breasts, one from the top and one from the side. Additional views might be needed. You can expect the exam to last approximately 20 minutes.

What Do I Need To Tell My Healthcare Provider?

• If you are pregnant, or suspect you might be, tell your doctor immediately.
• Make sure your doctor is aware of any medications you are taking.

How Do I Prepare?

• You might want to schedule your exam seven to 10 days after the beginning of your period, when your breasts are less likely to be tender.
• Do not wear body powder, cream, deodorant or lotion under your arms or on your breasts as it may interfere with the quality of your mammogram.
• Eat and drink as usual.
• Take your medications as usual unless otherwise directed by your physician.
• Dress comfortably. Consider wearing a two-piece outfit. Avoid clothing with metal buttons, buckles or zippers.
• Avoid wearing jewelry.

How Do I Get The Results?

A radiologist will evaluate your X-ray images and send your exam results to your physician, who will discuss them with you. Remember, most lumps are not cancerous. If there is an abnormality, your doctor will discuss additional diagnostic options with you.

If you have any questions or comments about your mammogram at any time, please talk to your physician or inform the mammography staff. We want to make you as comfortable with the exam as possible.

Ask Questions or Report Concerns

If you have any questions or concerns related to the imaging procedure that you had done today, please e-mail quality@dmshg.com or call 800.437.4628 and ask for the Quality Improvement Department. Unresolved concerns can be reported to The Joint Commission by calling 800.994.6610 or by going through their website, www.jointcommission.org.

DMS Health Technologies has earned The Joint Commission Gold Seal of Approval™ for mobile MRI, CT, PET/CT, Nuclear Medicine, Ultrasound, Cardiac/Angio, Bone Densitometry and Digital Mammography Services, as well as American College of Radiology (ACR) accreditation for mobile digital mammography services.