North
Fork Radiology - Mammography
 North
Fork Radiology is recognized by the American College of Radiology
as an Accredited Mammography Facility. All technologists are certified
in Mammography and Board Certification is a requirement of all of
our Radiologists. Our mammography program is geared to meet the
needs of our patients. As such a screening and a diagnostic program
is provided. When scheduling your mammogram appointment you will
be asked a series of questions to determine if your mammogram should
be screening or diagnostic in nature.
Helpful
hints: Do not schedule your mammogram while you have your period
as often your breasts are more sensitive and as a result you may
experience unnecessary discomfort.
How
to Prepare for Your Mammogram
The
day of your examination please refrain from wearing deodorant, lotion,
powder, creams or perfume. If you did apply any such products, they
must be completely removed before the examination. Wear a skirt
or pants the day of the examination so that only your top has to
be removed. Do not wear a dress. Always remember to bring a prescription
for your mammogram. This may be obtained from your primary care
or OBGYN physician.
Screening Mammography Program
What
is a Screening Mammogram?
A
screening mammogram is a radiographic examination (x-ray) that is
performed on an annual basis and is routine in nature for woman
who have no breast complaints. A screening mammogram evaluates breast
tissue for any abnormalities, including cysts, other benign abnormalities
and malignancy. The goal is to detect unsuspected breast cancer
at an early stage, before tumors may actually be felt. Your examination
is performed on state-of-the-art equipment accredited by both the
ACR and FDA.
How
is a Screening Mammogram Performed?
A
qualified Technologist who is ARRT certified in mammography will
perform your examination by positioning each breast between two
clear plates and/or paddles. The plates compress the breast tissue
to allow the clearest image of your breast. The compression may
be somewhat uncomfortable, but is necessary to achieve the proper
images.
The
technologist will ask you to wait while she checks the films to
be sure the images are clear and complete. The technologist does
not review your mammogram for abnormalities. If the technologist
requires additional views it indicates only that they want to be
certain all breast tissue is visible on the films.
Screening
Mammogram Results
All
screening mammograms are read within 24-48 hours by Board Certified
Radiologists. If there are no abnormal findings you and your referring
physician will receive written notification within 7 business days
and will most likely be instructed to return in a year for your
next screening mammogram.
The
interpreting Radiologist may require that you return for additional
images or a breast ultrasound. If this is the case our office will
contact you within 72 hours. There is no reason to worry should
additional images be required. Folds in breast tissue or blood vessels
in the breast often require additional magnification (enlarged)
views or ultrasound to clearly see all aspects of normal breast
tissue. An additional spot compression view may be required to view
a benign cyst or calcification. It is important to remember that
for most women who are called back, the additional views or breast
ultrasound show there is no problem. Often these additional images
provide the radiologist with additional information needed for a
more detailed assessment of one or more specific areas of your breast.
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