Mammography
Your mammogram at VHC Health can offer valuable insight into your health. Depend on our friendly staff to guide you through the process and make sure you receive fast, accurate results.
When to Get a Mammogram
Early detection decreases breast cancer mortality. The ACR recommends annual mammographic screening beginning at age 40 for women of average risk. Higher-risk women should start mammographic screening earlier and may benefit from supplemental screening modalities. For women with genetics-based increased risk (and their untested first-degree relatives), with a calculated lifetime risk of 20% or more or a history of chest or mantle radiation therapy at a young age, supplemental screening with contrast-enhanced breast MRI is recommended.
Breast MRI is also recommended for women with personal histories of breast cancer and dense tissue, or those diagnosed by age 50. Others with histories of breast cancer and those with atypia at biopsy should consider additional surveillance with MRI, especially if other risk factors are present. Ultrasound can be considered for those who qualify for but cannot undergo MRI. All women, especially black women and those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, should be evaluated for breast cancer risk no later than age 30, so that those at higher risk can be identified and can benefit from supplemental screening.
3D Mammogram Technology
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. To treat it, you must find it. If you find it early, you have a greater chance of an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
VHC Health offers state-of-the-art 3D mammogram technology that is proven to detect breast cancer better than traditional 2D mammography alone. We’re using it in our practice to give our patients new confidence in their breast health.
Unlike 2D mammography, 3D breast tomosynthesis takes many x-ray pictures of each breast from many angles that are not available in traditional mammography. The x-ray tube moves in a 15-degree arc around the breast, taking 15 images during the exam. Those images are then sent to a computer, where they are assembled into a 3D picture of the breast. The result is a clearer image that helps health providers detect malignant tumors better than standard 2D mammography alone, with fewer recalls.
We introduced tomosynthesis as an adjunct to 2D mammography because we want you and your family to be sure. We think it will save lives because it leaves breast cancer no place to hide.
What to Expect
Your mammogram will take about 20 minutes. At your appointment, plan to undress above the waist and put on a gown.
A VHC Health technician will place your breast between two plates of the mammogram machine. One plate takes images of the breast while the other holds the breast in place so the images are as clear as possible. Tell your technician if you feel discomfort or pain.
Screening Mammogram Results
A screening mammogram looks for signs of a problem before you have symptoms. Expect your results within one work day of your mammogram. Your referring provider will also receive the results in the mail within 24 hours.
Diagnostic Mammogram Results
If your doctor refers you for a mammogram at the Women’s Imaging Center at VHC Health’s due to signs of a potential breast problem, you’ll receive a comprehensive mammogram as quickly as possible. A knowledgeable radiologist will review the results right away. If needed, you’ll receive any follow-up diagnostic tests during the same appointment, for your convenience and peace of mind.
Follow-Up Tests
Based on your results, your family or personal history and other factors, your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as a breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.
