Mammography
What is Mammogram?
Mammography is an imaging service used to examine breast tissue. It is a low radiation x-ray exam using unique equipment designed to capture four or more images of the breast region. Exams are performed in an upright, standing position with breast carefully placed and compressed for each image. Mammograms are important in the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer as they reveal tumors that cannot yet be felt.
Types of Mammograms
There are two types of mammograms including screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms. Screening mammograms are routine checks for women, between the ages 35-40, who show no symptoms of abnormalities in their breasts. These are generally completed in conjunction with a clinical breast exam performed by your physician and are considered a preventive care service.
Diagnostic mammograms are for women and men who are currently experiencing suspicious abnormalities in their breast tissue or have a history of breast cancer in their family. With a diagnostic exam, the same images are captured as with a screening exam, but also captures specific customized views of the area in suspect.
You may need a diagnostic mammogram if you have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Personal history of breast cancer
- New lump or mass
- New breast pain that is localized to a specific point or area in the breast
- New nipple inversion
- Bloody discharge from the nipple
- Short-term follow up recommended by a radiologist from a previous mammography examination
- Screening mammogram revealed findings that needs further investigation
3D Mammography
With advanced imaging technology, Gainesville Radiology Group offers patients access to 3D mammography. 3D imaging provides Radiologists more visibility and clarity through overlapping breast tissue. With 3D mammograms, patients experience fewer call-backs for repeat exams as more precise, detailed images make abnormalities easily viewable, even in dense breast tissue.
Upon completion of your mammogram, interpretations are performed by board certified, subspecialty trained radiologists. Image readings will be sent to your referring provider who will then contact you with your results or schedule a follow-up consultation.