SERVICES - SoftTouch Mammography™
The difference you can feel.
SoftTouch Mammo combines the latest technologies – not only in digital imaging, but comfort as well!
Mammography is the most common method for detecting abnormalities in the breast. This screening technique is an x-ray that uses very low levels of radiation. It can find 85%-90% of breast cancers. Mammography makes it possible to see tiny cancers that may measure as little as half a centimeter (about one-fifth of an inch). Generally, a lump can't be felt until it's at least twice that size. The abnormalities that show up on a mammogram may be benign or malignant.
Research shows that annual screening mammography performed on large populations of women who otherwise have no breast complaints may save lives in women ages 50 and older and suggests that it possibly reduces mortality in women ages 40-49. The American Cancer Society and other medical groups recommend that women have an annual mammogram starting at age 40. Women who are at high risk for breast cancer because of a family history or other factors may begin screening at an earlier age. The downside of mammography is that it has increased the number of surgical biopsies in women who do not have breast cancer, and may increase a patient's anxiety level. As with any surgical procedure, complications may occur following a biopsy.
On a mammogram, the structures inside your breast appear in shades ranging from white to black. The white areas are mainly milk ducts. The hazy gray and black areas are fat tissue. Abnormalities appear as white spots of two types: densities or calcifications.
Digital mammography works with x-rays passing through the breast; however, Instead of going onto film, the x-rays are collected by detectors and converted to electronic signals. These signals are then used to create a digital image on a computer.
Digital imaging provides a number of advantages over film images:
Improved image clarity and contrast
Ability to magnify and enhance images, or areas within images
Less time, exposures and discomfort in the process
Studies show digital imaging can be more effective for women with dense breast tissue by allowing radiologists to heighten contrast and better detect cancer cells.
How is Digital Mammography different than analog?
Analog, also referred to as film mammography, is the traditional and still more common technology for screening mammograms.
In analog mammography, beams of x-rays are transmitted through the breast and captured on a piece of film to create an image. Structures inside the breast will appear in shades of gray, black and white, and abnormalities show as light or white spots.
Although analog mammography has been effective, it has some limitations in sensitivity. Images may not always be clear, and it can be difficult to tell if spots are areas of normal dense tissue or cancerous cells on a film mammogram.
For additional reading on this topic:
Detecting Breast Cancer
Pre-appointment Do’s and Don’ts:
Do’s:
Do inform our office of any previous mammograms you have had and where we may retrieve copies of the results.
Do wear a two-piece outfit for easy changing of upper garments.
Don’ts
Don’t wear lotion, deodorant, or perfume on your breasts or underarms if possible. |
Scheduling availability:
Screening and diagnostic appointments are available by referral only
Mondays-Wednesdays from 8am to 5pm
Machine: Hologic Selenia®
Tech(s): Donna M.
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