Mammography

Why Have a Mammogram?

According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.  If diagnosed in the earliest stage, however, nearly 100% of breast cancer patients survive with appropriate treatment. Both the American Cancer Society and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend low-dose mammography as the diagnostic tool of choice for detecting breast cancer. Technologists at PENRAD Imaging are American Registry of Radiographic Technologists (ARRT) – certified in mammography. In addition, our equipment is certified by the FDA and accredited by the ACR. Our Board-Certified Radiologists will interpret your images to give you the best possible chance of early detection. 

3D Mammography

PENRAD Imaging provides 3D mammography (sometimes referred to as Tomosynthesis) which produces a series of slices at various angles, which may then reduce the need for additional images. Although 3D mammography does deliver a bit more radiation than traditional mammography, it falls well within FDA-approved limits.  3D mammography is provided our Audubon Medical Campus, Broadmoor area clinic, Sisters Grove Pavilion, and Tri-Lakes area clinic locations.

What to Expect

To prepare for your mammogram, dress in a two-piece outfit. Do not apply powders, deodorants or creams on your underarms or breasts as these can interfere with the image quality. Do not schedule your mammogram for the week before your period; the best time for a mammogram is one week following your period.

During the Exam

During the brief periods of compression, the technologist will ask you to stay very still to ensure clear images. She will then review your images for quality and positioning, as well as perform any additional imaging needed prior to the end of the exam.

After the Exam

A board-certified radiologist will interpret your mammogram and provide a formal report to your referring healthcare provider on file. Your doctor will then discuss the results with you. In addition, the federal government requires every mammography facility to mail  a written summary of the mammography report in lay terms directly to the patient. This will be mailed to you within 30 days of your screening mammogram. If the radiologist detects any areas of concern, a representative from PENRAD Imaging will also contact you and your physician to schedule additional diagnostic studies. Please do not hesitate to contact us or check with your healthcare provider for additional information.