BILATERAL MAMMOGRAPHY – ScanLab Center

Synonyms/Aliases

BILATERAL MAMMOGRAM, BOTH BREAST MAMMOGRAM

Abbreviations

-N/A

^Report

40 minutes (after completion of the test)

^Setup

All working days

^Scan

20 MINUTES

Test in Brief

A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. Doctors use a mammogram to look for early signs of breast cancer

Exam Requirements

Try not to have your mammogram the week before you get your period or during your period. Your breasts may be tender or swollen then. On the day of your mammogram, dont wear deodorant, perfume, or powder. These products can show up as white spots on the X-ray. Some women prefer to wear a top with a skirt or pants, instead of a dress. You will need to undress from your waist up for the mammogram..

Instructions

Capture accurate patient information when reading request form to identify indications and contra-indications before the procedure/exam.

Method

You will stand in front of a special X-ray machine. A technologist will place your breast on a clear plastic plate. Another plate will firmly press your breast from above. The plates will flatten the breast, holding it still while the X-ray is being taken. You will feel some pressure. The steps are repeated to make a side view of the breast. The other breast will be X-rayed in the same way. You will then wait while the technologist checks the four X-rays to make sure the pictures do not need to be re-done. Keep in mind that the technologist cannot tell you the results of your mammogram.. Images of good radiographic quality are printed & given to the radiologist for reporting. Used to diagnose abnormalities of the breast (one) e.g. tumours.

Usefulness /Advantages

Reduces the risk of dying from breast cancer Of 1,000 women who have a mammogram every 2 years for 20 years, 7 deaths are prevented Reduces the risk of having to undergo chemotherapy Screening often allows for the detection of cancers at an early stage of development. Treatment is then possible without chemotherapy. Allows women to know the health of their breasts The vast majority of women (nearly 98 %) will not have breast cancer if their mammograms and additional examinations do not reveal cancers.

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