Mammography is a kind of radiographic test used to analyze the breasts specifically and is the first line of defense in detecting breast cancer.
A total of four projections are made during a regular breast examination: craniocaudal and oblique projections for each breast. Complementary projections may be required in some cases, although this does not necessarily mean that you have a problematic lesion.
In a mammogram, what happens?
Each breast is squeezed between two plates made of plastic, and an X-ray is taken during mammography. After that, a mammography screening clinic Boise doctor examines the X-ray and informs you of the results.
What is the procedure for mammography?
You undress your apparel from the upper torso, including your bra, before having a mammography. The technician at the mammography screening clinic then provides you with a robe to wear to protect yourself. You’re in front of a high-tech X-ray machine. You place each breast on a plastic platform one at a time, and the technologist lowers a plastic plate to press the breast.
Compressing the breast helps to spread out the tissue, making tumors and other indicators of breast cancer easier to catch (which is a type of cancer of the reproductive organs ). The compression of your breasts can be unpleasant and even painful, although it only lasts a few seconds during the mammography. Your breasts may hurt after your mammography. It takes roughly 15 minutes to complete the process.
The technician examines the x-ray after a breast cancer diagnostic mammogram to ensure that the treatment does not need to be redone. The x-ray is not examined for signs of malignancy by the technicians. After your doctor’s appointment, a radiologist performs this procedure. During diagnostic mammography, a radiologist may be present.
What occurs if the mammogram shows something unusual?
You’ll need to have some follow-up testing if your mammography results are suspicious. Do not be alarmed. An abnormal result may not always imply the presence of malignancy. Breast cancer is found in less than one out of every ten abnormal mammography results. An abnormal result indicates that additional testing is required to determine wrong. Your doctor may give the below-stated therapies:
- A biopsy: It involves removing a tiny bit of breast tissue and examining it for cancer cells.
- A core needle biopsy: It is a non-invasive treatment that consists of removing tissue with a thin needle.
- Ultrasound: It is a technique for detecting nodules that uses sound waves.
- Diagnostic mammography: A kind of mammogram that concentrates on the impacted parts of the breast.
After the mammography, what happens next in Boise?
The mammography results will be read to you by a radiologist. The amount of time it takes to acquire results varies. You can inquire how long you should wait for the findings when you undergo your mammogram. Call your doctor if you haven’t heard anything in a month or so.
Is it safe to have a mammogram?
Some people are concerned about X-ray exposure to radiation; however, radiation is very low. According to most doctors, the advantage of detecting cancer early much surpasses the minor danger of radiation during a mammogram.
