Advanced Technology for Breast Health Screening
Every day we learn more about how to win the battle against breast cancer. One fact is very clear — the distinct advantage of early detection. Fortunately, breast cancer is highly detectable through digital mammography screening. If breast cancer is detected early, before it spreads, 96 percent of women will be alive five years later. The earlier it’s discovered and the earlier it’s treated, the better your chance of survival.

Why the switch to digital?
Digital mammography was developed for many important reasons. The system transfers images to a computer so they can be electronically enhanced. Your doctor can zoom in, magnify and optimize different parts of the breast tissue using just four standard pictures. Special software allows your doctor to view the entire breast on one image.

How do digital mammograms differ from conventional film?
From your perspective the steps involved will be very similar. How the images are captured and what healthcare providers can do with them sets digital apart. Digital mammograms let your doctor focus in on the areas of concern, which enhance readability and interpretation of the image. And digital allows the image to be stored and transferred throughout the care network.

When should I have a mammogram?
If you’re a woman 40 or over, you should have a mammogram every year to check for abnormalit- ies or lumps that may indicate early stages of breast cancer. Mammograms can see cancerous lesions before you can feel them with a self-exam.

How long will my digital mammogram take?
It will take about 10 to 15 minutes for your healthcare provider to acquire the images. The compression and positioning are the same as traditional mammography however you will experience less waiting time and far fewer callbacks.

I’ve heard that digital mammography is better for patients who have dense breasts. What is the difference between dense and fatty breasts?
Your breast contains varying amounts of glandular (dense) tissue and fatty tissue. The more glandular tissue, the denser the breast. Digital mammography is better for imaging dense breast tissue than a traditional film method.

Does a digital mammogram involve any radiation?
The amount of radiation you’ll receive is approximately the same as with a traditional film mammogram, but may be less if you have very dense breast tissue.

Is there anything I can do to make the exam go more smoothly?
It’s best not to wear deodorant or powder the day of your exam since it could affect the image. Also, wear a two-piece outfit because you’ll need to undress from the waist up. To ease any discomfort, schedule your mammogram shortly after the end of your period.