Mammography
What Is It?
Mammography is an X-Ray examination of the breast. At Desert Reflections, this test is performed using the latest in low radiation dose dedicated mammography equipment. Computer assisted diagnosis (CAD) is also utilized to ensure the most accurate results. This means that your images are analyzed by a special computer prior to being submitted to a Board Certified Radiologist who specializes in mammography. Desert Reflections is ACR (American College of Radiology) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration) accredited. In addition, our mammography technologists hold special certification in mammography which requires ongoing education.
Why Would Your Doctor Order This Test?
Breast cancer will occur in one out of nine women in this country. The American Cancer Society recommends that all women undergo screening mammography annually, beginning with a baseline exam at age 40. Statistics show that women with a family history of breast cancer are at higher risk of developing the disease. If you are in a high risk group, your physician may recommend a mammogram at an earlier age.
Diagnostic mammograms may be ordered by your physician if additional information is needed following your screening exam. Other breast imaging may include ultrasound or a breast MRI, done at Desert Reflections with our High Definition MRI system utilizing dedicated breast imaging software, not available anywhere else in the area.
How Is The Test Done?
At Desert Reflections Imaging Center, your mammogram is performed in our private dedicated women's center by a female technologist. You will be given a gown and allowed to change in a private dressing room equipped with secure lockers for your belongings. You will need to remove all clothing above the waist, as well as jewelry. Usually the exam will consist of two views of each breast, although sometimes additional imaging may be performed. You will feel some pressure as your breast is compressed by the mammogram machine. Each view only takes a few seconds. Our mammography unit uses a device allowing more breast tissue to be seen on the film. This unique, bidirectional compression device also increases patient comfort. The ability to see more breast tissue creates superior images which yields more confident diagnoses.
Exam Prep & Scheduling
To ensure the best mammogram possible, your chest and underarm areas need to be clean. When scheduling your exam, you will be asked to avoid using any deodorant, perfume, powder or lotion the day of your exam. Following your exam, we will provide a deodorant packet for your use.
Mammograms are done by appointment and require a physician's order. They are performed Monday through Saturday beginning at 7:30 a.m. Late afternoon appointments are available as well. Many women also schedule their annual bone density exam in conjunction with their mammogram.
Desert Reflections Imaging Center, in partnership with The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, offers
free mammograms to uninsured or underinsured women. For more information about this program, please call (520) 381-XRAY (9729). |