Screening Mammogram
Diagnostic Mammogram
Breast Core Biopsy
Screening Mammogram
A screening mammogram is a procedure that examines the breast with an X-ray in order to create an internal picture of the breast.
A screening mammogram is considered a routine annual exam for women who have no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. It usually involves two X-rays of each breast. Since the exam is routine, the films are not interpreted by a radiologist (the doctor who reads the films) at the time of the visit.
What are the general procedures for a mammogram?
You will stand, sit or lie on a stretcher, depending upon what area of the breast is being examined. Several views of each breast will be taken. The technologist will position your breast on the mammography machine. Your breast will be pressed firmly by the machine in order to get a high-quality image. The procedure is then repeated for the other breast.
How do I get the results?
Contact your physician within 7-10 days to discuss the results. If additional images are required, your physician will let you know. We will also send you a letter.
Preparation
Before the X-ray, do not use deodorants, powders, perfumes, creams or ointments on your breasts or underarms. Wear a two-piece outfit so you can easily remove your top garments for the procedure.
The technologist will need to know if there is any possibility that you are pregnant or if you are nursing.
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Diagnostic Mammogram
Your physician has ordered a diagnostic mammogram. This procedure examines the breast with an X-ray in order to create an internal picture of the breast.
A diagnostic mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to detect unusual breast changes, such as a lump, pain, nipple thickening/discharge, or a change in breast size/shape. A diagnostic mammogram is also used to evaluate abnormalities detected on a screening mammogram. It involves two X-rays of each breast, along with any other additional films requested by the radiologist. You may receive your results at the time of your visit and your physician will be notified.
What are the general procedures for a mammogram?
You will stand, sit or lie on a stretcher, depending upon what area of the breast is being examined. Several views of each breast will be taken. The technologist will position your breast on the mammography machine. Your breast will be pressed firmly by the machine in order to get a high-quality image. The procedure is then repeated for the other breast.
*A diagnostic mammogram calls for more images of the breast than a screening mammogram.
Preparation
Before the X-ray, do not use deodorants, powders, perfumes, creams or ointments on your breasts or underarms. Wear a two-piece outfit so you can easily remove your top garments for the procedure.
The technologist will need to know if there is any possibility that you are pregnant or if you are nursing.
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Breast Core Biopsy
Breast Core Biopsy
Offered at Baptist Outpatient Center and Baptist Medical Plaza at Coral Gables.
What is it?
A breast biopsy is a test used to determine whether an abnormal area in the breast is cancer. There are two types of breast biopsy: one uses X-ray and the other uses ultrasound. Both offer an alternative to surgical biopsy.
The type that uses X-rays is similar to a mammogram, while lying face-down on a padded table. Your breast is placed through an opening in the table. The procedure using ultrasound is similar to having a breast ultrasound, which is done lying on your back. Both ways are relatively painless, take less than an hour to perform and leave little or no scar. Specially trained staff will use either X-ray or ultrasound to locate the abnormal area of the breast. Then the radiologist will guide a special needle into the area. Afterward, slivers of tissue will be removed from area of concern by the needle for analysis.
Preparation
Plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. This time is needed to complete the necessary paperwork and prepare you for the procedure.
The radiologist/physician performing the procedure will need your mammograms, breast ultrasound and the corresponding reports one week before the in order to review them. Your physician's office will schedule the procedure for you and give you the referral.
You need to consult with your physician regarding the discontinuation of any medications that could adversely affect the procedure:
Aspirin, Motrin, Vioxx, Celebrex *
Vitamin E *
Herbal supplements: St John's Wart, Ginkgo Biloba, Echinacea*
*These should be stopped one week before the procedure.
You will be asked to discontinue medications known as anticoagulants, such as Coumadin, Heparin or Plavix. Please contact your physician for further instructions. Additional lab work (PT-PTT) may be required.
If you have certain conditions such as mitral valve prolapse, you may be asked to take additional medication, such as an antibiotic. Please check with your physician, as he or she will need to prescribe this medication.
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-The equipment used for your procedure requires a very cold environment. Please bring a sweater.
-Please leave your valuables at home.
-If you have any questions about these instructions or have any other concerns, contact your doctor immediately.
Disclaimer: These instructions are general guidelines. If your physician gives you more detailed directions, follow his/her advice.