Wednesday, February 22 2012  
 

 

Needle Biopsy Procedure

Breast Ultrasound

Special Mammographic Procedures

The best known breast-imaging exam is mammography. It is a special type of x-ray that is the most effective method for the early detection of breast cancer.

Why breast imaging is so important?

What is mammogram?

Is mammography safe?

What’s the difference between screening and diagnostic mammograms?

When should I get a mammogram?

How should I prepare for a mammogram?

How is  the mammogram performed?

When will I have the results?

How can I make an appointment?

 

 

Why breast imaging is so important?
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in women. It is very important to detect at an early stage. We employ mammography and ultrasound.

 

What is mammogram?
It is a set of x-ray images of the breasts. Each breast is imaged in two different projections. The mammogram is performed by placing the breast in special machine .The breast is held in compression to achieve the clearest possible image .The radiation beam passes through the breast and forms an image on a special x-ray film.

 

Is mammography safe?
Mammography exposes you to some radiation. Today’s mammography equipment is designed so that the exposure is minimal.

 

What’s the difference between screening and diagnostic mammograms?
Screening mammography
is performed on women without symptoms who are over the age of forty to detect any early signs of breast cancer.

Diagnostic mammography is performed to answer on particular questions in different situations:

  • Signs or symptoms as :
    lump
    breast pain
    nipple discharge
    unexplained skin changes of breasts
    asymmetry of the breasts
  • Personal or family history of breast cancer
  • Abnormality on a screening mammogram

Diagnostic mammography can includes extra views: magnification or different other positions.

As complementary examination we perform breast ultrasound.

 

When should I get a mammogram?
According to the American Cancer Society the first mammogram must be performed on the age of 35-39 (the baseline mammogram). This may be performed at earlier age if there are any signs or symptoms or in women with a family history of breast cancer.

After the baseline mammogram a woman should have a mammogram:

  • every one or two years on the age 40-49
  • annually after age 50
  •  

How should I prepare for a mammogram?
If you had a prior mammogram you must bring that. Comparing mammograms is very helpful in detecting minimal changes.

On the day of your mammogram you should not use talcum powder, perfume or deodorant in the axillary regions .We recommend that you wear a comfortable two- pieces garment. You may continue any medication that you normally take.

 

How is performed the mammogram?
The radiologist (or the radiographer) will position your breasts .To obtain a good quality picture your breast must be flattening and compressing (the pressure may cause discomfort).The entire examination will take a half hour.

 

When I have the results?
After the examination the radiologist doctor will discuss with you about the results and will give you the films and the report.

 

How can I have appointment?
By phone (++357 5) 818585

By e-mail www.Kotziamanis@biodiagnostiki.com.cy