WHAT IS MAMMOGRAPHY
Mammography is specialised x-ray imaging technique for the breast. The primary role is to detect and diagnosis malignant breast disease. Mammography requires specific position and compression of the breast tissue to achieve satisfactory views. Modern mammography consists of both 2D and 3D (also known as tomosynthesis) images and mammography can also be used to guide sampling of tissue i.e. a biopsy.
BEFORE THE SCAN
What to bring
- Your Medicare Card
- Any relevant previous imaging
- Your referral from your doctor
Your mammography may be performed in conjunction with breast ultrasound and depending on your results, may require further work-up. Therefore, your appointment may take between 20 minutes to 1 hour. The mammographer will keep you informed during the examination.
No fasting is required. Wear comfortable clothing and we will provide a gown for you to change into.
Let the mammographer know if you are pregnant or might be pregnant. They’ll take precautions if needed.
DURING THE SCAN
The mammographer will give you specific instructions about how to position your body and mammography requires the compression of breast tissue. This can be uncomfortable but is mostly able to be tolerated.
Multiple views of your breast tissue are imaged, and this is reviewed promptly by a subspecialised breast radiologist who will dictate if further views are required.
AFTER THE SCAN
Your mammogram (often in conjunction with ultrasound) will be reviewed by a subspecialised breast radiologist, and the results will be shared with your healthcare provider. They will discuss the findings with you.
You can resume your normal activities after a mammogram.