Mammography

A mammogram is an x-ray that uses low-dose radiation to create an image of your breast tissue. A mammogram is performed to help your physician detect breast cancer before symptoms appear. While mammography is the best single method of detecting breast cancer, it does not find all breast cancers, so it is important for you to do breast self-examinations on a continuing basis, and to see your health care provider as recommended. The American Cancer Society recommends annual mammogram beginning at age 40.

If you are not having any problems, you will be scheduled for a routine or screening mammogram. Routine exams are only screening tests and cannot tell if you have cancer. They can only identify suspicious areas that may require further testing.

A diagnostic mammogram will be scheduled if you are having problems (lumps, discharge, pain) in your breasts, and involve more images or pictures and will require more time than routine mammograms. Diagnostic mammograms are reviewed by the Radiologist at the time of your visit, so you will have results that day.

You should not schedule your mammogram when your breasts are tender (before or during your period). Compression used during mammography is essential for reducing x-ray exposure, and for a better view of breast tissue. Before your mammogram, do not use any deodorant, powder, perfume, or lotion in your underarm area or on your breasts. Residue from these products can often be detected on the films and could create misleading results. You will be asked to undress from the waist up, so you may wish to wear a two-piece outfit.

During your exam, a registered female mammographer will position your breast on the x-ray machine using a smooth plastic shield that spreads and thins the breast tissue as it compresses or squeezes. You will feel pressure or slight discomfort on your breast for a short period of time. Compression ensures that the picture of your breasts is clearer and is obtained with less radiation than would have been possible without the temporary discomfort you may experience. Two x-rays will be taken of each breast, and with each x-ray, you will be asked to remain still and hold your breath. We do ask that you wait while the images are being processed to make sure they contain all the necessary information the Radiologist needs. Occasionally, more images are needed. Length of the exam is approximately 20-45 minutes.

Please bring any previous mammogram films you have had elsewhere (outside of the St. Cloud area) with you at the time of your exam. Your previous mammograms will be compared (by the Radiologist) with your current study, and are very important when looking for small changes in the breast tissue.

After your mammogram a radiologist will view the films along with CAD (Computer Aided Detection), which provides the radiologist with a method to “double check” your mammogram films. If you are having a routine mammogram, the Breast Center staff will notify you by letter of your mammogram results in 3-4 working days. You may get a phone call if additional films are needed. If you have had a diagnostic mammogram or this is a mammogram within 2 years of a lumpectomy due to breast cancer you will learn the results the same day.

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. To help ensure quality and safety, we ask that you do not bring young children with you to your appointments, as children are not allowed to accompany you during Imaging procedures. Staff is unable to monitor your child in your absence.

If you have any questions about this procedure, please discuss them with your physician or contact the Breast Center at (320) 229-4919 or (800) 835-6652.

Your appointment is on:

Date: ________________ Time: ________________ at the following location:

CentraCare Health Plaza - Woodlands entrance - Please check in at the Breast Center, located on the first floor at Suite 1500, 15 minutes prior to your appointment. .