Digital Mammography
Early detection is crucial with breast cancer. Guilford and West Haven, CT practices gives you convenient appointments for digital mammography exams.
What is mammography?
Mammography is performed to screen for signs of breast cancer or other diseases. Mammography is important because it can detect cancer before it can be felt by you or your doctor.
Screening & Diagnostic Mammograms
Screening mammography is just as the name implies. It is routine testing done yearly beginning at age 40 for most women. Routine screening is for women who are asymptomatic.
Diagnostic mammography is typically ordered for a woman who has felt a lump or a change in her breast during monthly self breast exam or during a physician's examination. A diagnostic mammogram may also be performed if a radiologist determines additional information is needed following a screening mammogram. If additional imaging is necessary, we will call you to schedule a diagnostic mammogram. We understand that this call may cause anxiety, but do not be alarmed. The need for additional imaging is fairly common and we will discuss the results with you the day of your exam.
Please note that Connecticut law now requires more communication with patients about mammographic breast density to help with the early detection of breast cancer. S.B. 458 requires all mammography reports given to a patient on and after October 1, 2009 to include information about breast density. Click here for more information on this law.
Our Mammography Equipment and Technologists
Our mammography machines are “digital”, meaning that we use computers to improve the quality of the images, and at the same time using a lower x-ray dose. Digital Mammography has been proven superior to analog (film) imaging particularly in those women under the age of 50, patients who have dense breasts, or patients who are pre or peri-menopausal. Our equipment uses 1/4 to 1/3 less radiation dose than analog imaging. We use Computer Aided Technology (CAD), which alerts the radiologists of areas of the breast that may require more attention. The radiologist can then go back and review the film to determine whether the marked areas need additional testing.
Our knowledgeable, professional technologists will put you at ease and answer all of your questions before the exam.
How to Prepare for a Mammogram
If you had a mammogram previously done at another location, please contact that facility and have a copy of your exam sent to you or directly to us. Please bring it with you if you receive it directly. Please wear a comfortable two-piece outfit. Refrain from applying lotions, deodorant, powders or perfumes around the breast and armpit area.
What to Expect
Our technologist will ask you about your medical history. You will be asked to undress from the waist up and a gown will be provided. Our technologist will position your breast on a platform and gradually compress it with a plastic paddle to obtain at least 2 pictures of each breast. You will be given breathing instructions. After the exam, you may resume normal activities. Deodorant and toiletries are available for your convenience.
The exam is relatively painless and takes approximately 15 minutes. We offer a private waiting room and television within our Women’s Center, in case your need to bring a family member with you to your exam.
Your Results
If your results are negative, meaning that we saw nothing that requires any additional testing, you will receive a letter in the mail within one week us. If additional images are needed, we will contact you to schedule this follow up and notify your doctor. Our goal is to provide you with the highest level of customer service and image quality in a caring and supportive environment.
Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns about your procedure, feel free to call us at 203-453-5123 or contact us online.
