3D DIGITAL MAMMOGRAPHY

​

What is mammography?

 

3D Digital mammography(tomosynthesis) is an x-ray exam that produces detailed images of the internal structures of the breasts.  These images can detect abnormalities that are too small to be felt by you or your doctor. 3D mamography provides superior anatomical information compared to 2D especially when imaging dense breast tissue.  Studies also indicate that within the first year of implementation that call backs for additional images are reduced by 30%.  The American Cancer Society recommends mammography, along with self-breast examinations and periodic exams by your doctor as the best means to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages.  OGH Imaging is currently the only facility in Louisiana where you have control of your breast compression during your 3D mammogram.  We also are the only facility in Acadiana employing artificial intelligence with our CAD (computer aided detection) to assist the Radiologist during reporting.    

​

How do I prepare for my mammogram?

 

Very little preparation is required.  You may eat, drink, and take regular medications.  If you are premenopausal, it is preferable to have your mammogram the week following your period when your breasts are least tender.  You will be asked to undress from the waist up, so you make want to wear a skirt or slacks instead of a dress on the day of your exam.  Do not wear underarm deodorant, powders, or creams on your breasts on the day of the exam.  These can show up on the mammogram images and interfere with the test results.  Deodorant is available in the mammography suite for you after you are done with your exam. 

​

What can I expect during my mammogram?

 

All exams area performed by female registered technologists who have had specialized training in 3D digital mammography.  Your technologist will take a brief history from you and then have you change into a gown.  The procedure will be explained step-by-step.  Please feel free to ask questions during your exam.  A routie 3D mammogram takes about the same time as a regular 2D exam and the radiation dose is very similar to that of the 2D exam.  The technologist will gently apply slight compression to your breast against the imaging detector.  You (the patient) then have the ability to apply final compression through the use of a remote control.  The technologist will work with you to ensure that optimal compression is achieved.  The compression may be uncomfortable, but should not be intolerable.  Adequate compression is necessary to properly view your breast tissue.  This test takes approximately fifteen minutes.  The technologist may have you wait a few minutes while checking the images to make sure all of your breast tissue is imaged adequately for the radiologist to read your study.

​

What happens after my mammogram?

 

Your Mammogram (as well as any other breast images) are sent to a radiologist after your exam. The radiologist will review your images and compare them to your prior mammograms. While comparing images, the radiologist will look for any changes or abnormalities in your new mammogram.

Abnormalities include:

                                            architectural distortion 

                                          asymmetries

                                          calcifications, and

                                              masses

 

The radiologist will send a report to your doctor. A copy of the report and a letter will be mailed to you.

 

If your mammogram is normal or unchanged, then your report will include a recommendation that you continue with your normal yearly screening interval, unless clinical findings suggest otherwise. If your mammogram is abnormal, additional diagnostic imaging will be recommended in your report. This recommendation would request that you to return for additional diagnostic mammogram views or an ultrasound, or both, depending on the abnormality.

 

          ❖ Based on the findings of your additional diagnostic imaging, a report

              will be created by the radiologist and will be mailed to you and faxed to                       your doctor.

               This report may recommend that:

                             ➢ You return to a routine screening schedule (every year), or

                             ➢ return for a close follow-up schedule (3 or 6 months), or

                             ➢ perform a biopsy

​

          ❖ A report and a letter will be mailed to you. Your doctor will receive a

               fax copy of your report and will contact you to schedule your follow up.                    Any questions should be directed to your physician at this time. Your                            physician is the most appropriate person to discuss your findings and                          clinical history with you.

​

          ❖ If a biopsy is recommended, your doctor will be contacted by telephone                    within 24 hours after your exam time. Your doctor will contact you to                            schedule the biopsy. Any questions should be directed to your physician

              at this time. Your physician is the most appropriate person to discuss your                  findings and clinical history with you. You will receive a letter along with                      the report in the mail and your doctor will receive a faxed copy of the final                  report.

​