| OUR SERVICESRADIOLOGY/IMAGING SERVICES Mammography A mammogram, which is a low-dose x-ray picture of the breast, is the most effective screening test for the early detection of breast cancer available to women today. Studies show that when breast cancer is detected in its earliest stages, a woman’s chances of successful treatment dramatically increase. And, according to the American Cancer Society, mammography detects about 80-90% of breast cancers in women before they have symptoms. The American Cancer Society recommends that all women 40 years and older have a mammogram each year, while women with a family history of the disease should talk with their doctor about getting screened at an earlier age. Digital Mammography – the Difference is Clear. With digital mammography, the image of your breast is converted to an electronic file and stored directly on a computer. With high-resolution digital images, the radiologist can adjust the brightness, change contrast, and zoom in for close-ups … all without having to take an additional image. These capabilities can result in earlier diagnosis, and lesions are often caught when they are still confined to a small area in the breast. Finding cancers earlier means treatment can be started earlier, giving patients the best chance for a complete recovery. The Patient’s Point of ViewFrom the patient’s perspective, the procedure for a digital mammogram is the same as for a conventional film mammogram; however the advantages of digital mammography are many. They include a reduced radiation dose to patients — a decrease of 25 percent over traditional units — and decreased patient time in the exam room. Research has also shown digital mammography to be better for detecting breast lesions in women under 50, pre- and peri-menopausal women, and women with dense breast tissue. Making an Appointment There are two types of mammograms: screening and diagnostic. Screening mammograms should be performed yearly. Any other mammogram is diagnostic and is problem or follow-up focused. Both types of mammograms require a physician order. Be sure to bring you physician order with you to avoid appointment delays. To schedule your mammogram, please call: Screening Mammograms
Diagnostic MammogramsWoman to Woman Samaritan Radiology Dept. 1575Washington St.  830 Washington St. 785-4155 779-5200 |
