Digital Mammography
What is Digital Mammography?
Borg Imaging exclusively uses only state of the art Full Field Digital Mammography (FFDM). This is similar to conventional mammography in that low dose x-rays are used and the breast is compressed for a few seconds for each image. However, instead of the images of the breast being displayed on x-ray film, the x-rays pass through the breast to a digital receptor and are then displayed on a computer screen. This gives the radiologist the ability to manipulate the images to change the contrast, magnify areas, and directly apply Computer Aided Detection (CAD) software to the image. Because of these options of image manipulation that Full Field Digital Mammography allows, a recent comprehensive study has shown that digital mammography may be more sensitive for detecting breast cancer in dense breast tissue*.
*The New England Medical Journal Volume 353:1773-1783, October 27, 2005 , Number 17
What is Computer Aided Detection (CAD)?
Borg Imaging also uses Computer Aided Detection (CAD) on all screening mammograms. This is a software program applied directly to the image of the breasts that highlights areas for special attention to assist the radiologists in their final review of the images.
This, in effect, produces a dual assessment of a patient’s examination with the radiologist’s oversight at each stage. For Medicare and most insurance providers, CAD in mammography is a covered service.
Why do screening mammography?
Screening mammography is defined as a mammographic exam of the breast in an asymptomatic woman to screen for breast cancer. It is still the best test for early detection of breast cancer. The Borg Imaging Group recommends annual screening mammograms for all women beginning at age forty and beginning sooner if there is a family history of breast cancer at an early age. Please consult with your own doctor regarding mammographic screening intervals.
How do I prepare for my mammogram?
If you notice breast tenderness just prior to you menstrual period,
you may want to schedule your screening exam after your period to increase
you comfort level.
Also you should consider avoiding powders and deodorants on the day of your mammogram since some of these products can create densities on the mammogram.
Other important information:
- Most breast lumps are not cancers.
- Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American women (lung cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in women and men)
- With earlier detection, twenty-year survival rates for women with minimal breast cancer can be improved to over 90%.
- Mammography often permits the detection of breast cancer before a lump can be felt.
How will I learn about my results?
For routine screening mammograms you will receive the results by
mail within one week. A full report will be sent to your doctor, who can
answer any questions you may have.
Please note: Sometimes a patient will be called back for additional diagnostic mammographic views after a screening mammogram. If this happens to you, don’t panic. Most of the time the reviewed density that needs further imaging in the breast is NOT breast cancer and often is just overlap of normal tissue or a non-cancerous cyst. It is still important to promptly schedule those additional mammographic images, however, to determine if further assessment such as biopsy is needed.
For diagnostic mammograms which are done for a specific breast problem, you will hear results directly from one of our radiologists on the day of your exam.