North
Fork Radiology - Diagnostic Mammography Program
What
is a Diagnostic Mammography?
 Diagnostic
mammography is an x-ray exam of the breasts that is performed to
evaluate a breast complaint or abnormality detected by a physical
examination or a screening mammogram. Diagnostic mammography is
different from screening mammography in that additional views of
the breast are usually taken, as opposed to two views typically
taken with screening mammography. Thus, diagnostic mammography is
usually more time-consuming and costly than screening mammography.
Mammography
can help detect calcifications, cysts and masses. Calcifications
are tiny mineral deposits within the breast tissue that appear as
small white regions on the mammogram films. A mass is a group of
cells clustered together more densely than the surrounding tissue
and a cyst is a non-cancerous collection of fluid in the breast.
The goal of diagnostic mammography is to pin point the exact size
and location of a breast abnormality and to image the surrounding
tissue and lymph nodes. In most cases, diagnostic mammography will
help show that the abnormality is benign (non-cancerous). When this
occurs, the radiologist will recommend follow-up mammography in
6 or 12 months, which will be considered diagnostic as well. However,
if an abnormality seen is suspicious, additional breast imaging
such as breast ultrasound or biopsy is necessary to determine the
nature of suspicion.
How
is a Diagnostic 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. Typical views for diagnostic mammograms include the cranio-caudal
view (CC), medio lateral oblique view (MLO), and supplemental views
tailored to the specifications
Diagnostic
Mammogram Results
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; however, your films
will be presented to the Radiologist for review. After the Radiologist
has determined that all necessary views have been obtained you will
be permitted to leave.
In
the event the Radiologist is concerned after viewing your films
the Radiologist will immediately call your referring physician and
you will be instructed to follow-up with that physician in an expedient
fashion at which time your mammogram results will be discussed.
A
formalized report will be sent to the referring physician within
5-7 business days.
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