Patients - Your Exam
Preparations
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Before scheduling your exam, discuss any specific breast concerns you have with your breasts with your physician.
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Inform your doctor of any previous surgeries, hormone use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
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Inform your doctor and/or the technologist if there is any possibility you may be pregnant.
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If applicable, please research the date and location of your prior mammogram so we can have it available to read your mammogram.
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Do not wear antiperspirant, talcum powder, or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of your exam.
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Describe any breast problems to your technologist.
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Because you will be removing your clothing from the waist up, it is a good idea to wear a two-piece outfit. Also, please do not use any lotions or powders on your breasts. You may use deodorant.
Forms
Community OutreachValley Radiology supports the Susan G. Komen breast cancer foundation. For more information about this life-changing organization, visit this website http://ww5.komen.org/
Digital Mammography
Description
Mammography, commonly referred to as a mammogram, uses low-dose x-ray to examine the breast. Valley Radiology uses only digital mammography, which has been proven to detect more
cancers in women with denser breasts. Additionally, our radiologists review each study with computer-aided detection (CAD) software. The American Cancer Society has recognized the benefits of CAD for breast cancer screening in women of average risk stating, “…CAD systems may aid the average radiologist by substantially improving detection of early stage malignancies…”
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Screening Mammogram: Plays a part in early detection of breast cancers. Current guidelines recommend screening mammography every year for women, beginning at age 40. Mammography may be performed earlier than age 40 in women with a high risk of developing breast cancer.
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Diagnostic Mammogram: Used to evaluate a patient with abnormal clinical findings - such as breast lumps.
How is the procedure performed?
A technologist will position your breast in the mammography unit. Your breast will be placed on a special platform and compressed with a paddle. The technologist will gradually compress your breast. You will be asked to hold very still. When completed, you will be asked to wait until the technologist ensures the quality of your images.
Who interprets the results and how do I receive them?
A board certified radiologist will analyze the images and send a final report to your primary care or referring physician within 24 hours. However, if a radiologist is onsite we are often available to provide you with your results while you wait.
Guidelines for the Early Detection of Breast Cancer
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Yearly mammograms starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman is in good health.
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Clinical breast exams (CBE) should be part of a periodic health exam, about every three years for women in their 20s and 30s and every year for women 40 and over.
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Women should report any breast change promptly to their health care providers. Breast self-exam (BSE) is an option for women starting in their 20s.
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Women at increased risk (e.g., family history, genetic tendency, past breast cancer) should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of starting mammography screening earlier, having additional tests (e.g., breast ultrasound or MRI), or having more frequent exams.
More Information:
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Helpful Links for Patients:
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California law currently requires that women with dense breast be notified after undergoing screening mammography. Click here to view our statement and information about this law, as well as to access a breast cancer risk assessment tool.
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Visit MammograpySavesLives to learn more about mammography, get an email reminder, share stories and more!
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Learn about Dense Breasts and Breast Cancer Screening