Mammograms

Is an important procedure use to screen and detect lumps, tumors, microcalcifications, and abnormal tissue proliferation within the breast. There are two types of mammogram depending on its functionality, screening mammogram and diagnostic mammogram. Screening mammogram is best for woman who has no signs and symptoms of the disease and is used for baseline screening. Diagnostic mammogram on the other hand is used to evaluate the changes found on screening mammogram by the physician and will have ease on targeting the suspected affected area.

According to American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the 2nd most leading cost of cancer among woman ages 40 and above so screening is very important for people who are at risk of acquiring it. Breast cancer is not solely an illness for woman as men can also acquire the disease. There is a 1% chance that a man can get breast cancer throughout his lifetime.

Who are at risk of developing breast cancer?

National Cancer Institute recommends that screening mammogram should be done for woman ages 40 and above every one to two years. If woman is of greater risk of developing the disease baseline mammogram should be done 35 y/o. It also depends on your physician recommendation as to how often you will undergo mammography.

Mammography is a non invasive procedure performed on an outpatient basis. Aided by a qualified radiologist or xray technician, the breast is position on a special platform, once the breast is aligned, it will be compressed and xray will be delivered to your breast to view and record the image. Compression of the breast is necessary to visualize breast tissue, allow for small radiation to penetrate the breast, holds the breast in a firm way in order to minimize blurring of the image, and spread out the breast tissue so to prevent false positive/negative result.

The radiologist would ask you to change position several times to better view the breast in different angle once done the other breast will also be examined. The procedure takes about 20 – 30 min, after completion the physician will analyze the images and will send the report to your chosen physician for w/c he/she will discuss the results to you.

Advancement in technology led on the creation of Digital mammography. The procedure is still the same with conventional film mammogram the only difference is that the xray films are replaced by solid state detectors (similar with digital cameras) converting it to electrical signals. These electrical signals produce the image of the breast. The advantage of digital mammogram over conventional mammogram is that films are sent in a speedy manner and the information is stored in a computer which can be access anytime.

Potential Harms of Mammogram:

False-negative results

False-positive results

Radiation exposure

Over diagnosis and over treatment

Woman who has breast implants is not exempted to undergo mammogram; they are at increased risk to develop cancer because detection of lumps is difficult to find. Technologist should be informed regarding the presence of the implants so that they can perform special technique in doing the procedure (ex: implant displacement views).

What to Know Before the Procedure:

It is recommended that you discuss any findings or problems in your breasts with your physician. A patient should follow the instructions provided by their doctor in order to prepare for the procedure. In addition, inform your doctor of any prior surgeries, medicine used, familial or personal history of breast cancer, allergies to any medication, etc.

The best time to schedule your mammogram is one week following your period as the breast is less tender. It is a must that you informed your doctor/xray technologist of the possibility that you are pregnant as this procedure may impost harm to the developing fetus.

Prior to the procedure it is advice to not wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your armpits or on your chest/breasts on the day of the exam. These can result to a false positive as it can reflect as microcalcification on the film. Always ask as to when the results would be release never assume normal findings if you will not hear from your doctor or the mammography clinic.

What to Expect After the Procedure:

Patient may experience soreness for a couple of days However; most of the discomfort subsides with prescription medication. Patients can return to work after just a couple of days. Light activities can be resumed the day after the procedure. If discomfort still continue it is best to contact your physician.