Definition:
Mammography is a special test performed to examine, detect and evaluate abnormalities of the breast tissue (tumor either benign or cancerous) using x-rays. A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast tissue.
Additional information about the procedure
Preparation for the procedure
- Prior to schedule for the mammography inform the doctor about previous surgeries, hormone treatment and family or personal history of breast cancer
- Do not schedule mammography for a week before period (as breast compression and squeezing is necessary for mammography, the breast may be tender during that time). The appropriate time for mammography is 1-2 week following the menstrual period.
- Do not put deodorant, powder or lotion on upper body on the day of test.( particles of these products can interfere the clear result of mammogram)
- Inform the x-ray technologist or radiologist about the possibility of pregnancy.
During the procedure
- Mammography may take about 30min to 1hour and can be performed in a various setting that are equipped with mammography x-ray machine such as outpatient department, gynecologist’s clinic or other facilities
- Patient needs to remove clothing from the waist up and hospital gown is put on.
- A qualified technologist will position the breast in the mammography unit. The breast will be compressed gradually, the compression of breast is necessary to have a clear mammogram.
- Patient may need to change positions differently during the procedure.
- Some women may feel discomfort or mild pain at breast due to compression of breast that goes away within short time.
- Patient can return home after the test is completed.
Risk
- The risk of radiation exposure during the mammography procedure is considered as minimal and not significant. It is outweighed by the potential benefits of mammography.
- There are chances of false negative result in screening mammography, especially in woman having dense breast tissue.
- Similarly there could be false positive results that may require further mammogram and other diagnostic test to confirm the diagnosis.
Uses of Mammography
The test is performed either as 1, A screening test for early detection of breast cancer in women who do not have symptoms of signs of breast cancer, above 40 years of age and is at higher risk of developing breast cancer. Or
2, to diagnose the breast cancer in women having lump in breast or is suffering from specific symptoms associated with breast cancer such as discharge from the nipple and unusual tenderness at breast. Diagnostic mammography can also be used to evaluate the changes found during screening mammogram.
Travelers guide
Patient can return back on the day of the procedure, however medical travelers are advised to stay for more days to discuss the result with radiologist and plan about the further diagnostic test or treatment in case of positive results.
