Types of Breast Imaging

Digital Screening Mammography

For women not experiencing any kind of irregularities or concerns, Digital Screening Mammography is a safe, low-dose X-ray of the breast designed to identify cancer in the early stages, long before it can be detected by a physical examination. Screening Mammography typically consists of four views – two of each breast. It remains our best method of detecting breast cancer early. In addition to film mammography, Cypress Women’s Imaging is also the area's leading provider of digital mammography. Having provided this option since 2001, our physicians and technologists have the greatest experience with this technology, which has been shown to offer the chance for earlier detection among women with dense breast tissue. At Cypress Women’s Imaging, all mammograms are done in a private and comfortable setting by specially trained, registered mammography technologists. These images are read by our experienced team of board-certified radiologists and sent to your primary care physician. The American Cancer Society recommends regular mammograms for women age 40 and over. Breast self-examination should be done on a monthly basis.

CAD (Computer-Aided Detection)

After one of our Board-Certified Radiologists has interpreted your Screening Mammogram, a CAD is performed. Through this process, the image on mammogram film is turned into a computer image. A computer program is then used to highlight areas that may be abnormal. This process may identify areas of the breast that could be suspect for calcifications or breast cancer and allow the Radiologist to re-evaluate that portion of the image.

Digital Diagnostic Mammography

When a Digital Screening Mammogram uncovers suspicious areas, or a patient is having specific breast problems, a Diagnostic Mammogram is needed. This may consist of additional views beyond the standard four included in a Screening Mammogram. The additional views of Diagnostic Mammography are also commonly used for women who have breast implants because the implant interferes with imaging "through" the entire breast.

Ductogram

If a woman is experiencing drainage not associated with routine causes, a Ductogram may be performed. Ductography is a special type of contrast enhanced mammography used for imaging the breast ducts. A Ductogram can aid in diagnosing the cause of an abnormal nipple discharge and is valuable in diagnosing intraductal papillomas and other conditions.

What should I expect

During your mammogram, one of our female technologists will position each breast imaging plate to apply compression to the breast. Compression aids in visualizing the tissue and helps to see potential abnormalities that could be obscured by overlying breast tissue. You should expect to feel pressure from the compression, but women who have sensitive breasts may feel discomfort. The compression will only last for a few moments and no discomfort should be felt following the exam. After each view, the breast will be repositioned to optimize any additional views.

How do I prepare

• It is best to schedule your mammogram the week after your period when the breast are less tender.
• Advise the Technologist if you have any particular symptoms or can describe an abnormality. Also, be sure to mention any family history of breast cancer.
• Bring any prior mammograms with you to your appointment, if possible, for the radiologist to compare.
• Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder, or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam. These products can often mimic breast disease.
• Before the exam, you will be asked to remove all jewelry and clothing from the waist up. You will be given a gown that opens in the front
• If you have breast implants, let us know when you make your appointment so we can optimize your exam.

How and when will I know the results

After your study is over, the images will be evaluated by one of our Board-Certified Radiologists who specializing in breast imaging. A final report will be sent to your physician who can then discuss the results with you in detail.

Please contact us if you have any questions about Breast Imaging.