by Norma Chew

Created on: October 09, 2008   Last Updated: November 27, 2008

A mammogram is a test that reveals the inner breast tissue on an X Ray film. It is a test used to screen for abnormal breast changes including cancer of the breast. A mammogram can detect tiny tumors that cannot be felt or would not be detected in the breast for up to two years.

A mammogram be be done as screening test or as a diagnostic test. A screening test mammogram or a base -line mammogram is done for a person without signs of breast changes. A diagnostic mammogram is done to investigate suspicious signs of breast changes.

According to the American Cancer Society and the American College of Radiology: A screening base-line mammogram is recommended for women between the ages of 35 - 39 years. At the age of 40 years an annual mammogram is the recommended practice.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING A MAMMOGRAPHY?

The following instructions are given to the patient prior to the procedure.

Avoid using powder and deodorant prior to arrival for the test. Deodorant causes the X Ray results to appear foggy. Powder leaves residue that can be mistaken on a mammogram as calcifications. Signs of calcification will require a call back for a second mammogram to be done for diagnostic reasons.

Wear a two piece out fit e.g. a skirt or pants with a blouse or shirt. This makes it easier for the patient to remove only their blouse or shirt and replace it with a hospital gown.

A certain amount of anxiety may be experienced in preparing to take such a test. This is a normal reaction. Talking with a friend who have had this test, will ease these fears as they share their experience and giving you their reassurance and support. Some breast screening centers will provide you with a video that will explain the procedure and and will include feed back from other patients who have had the procedure.

THE PROCEDURE

A mammography procedure is done by a registered mammogram technologist.

The procedure is quick and easy and taking about 30 - 40 minutes.

The patient wears a hospital gown.

The technologist will assist thew patient in placing their breast on the X Ray portion of the mammography machine. The technologist will lower the top part of the X Ray plate onto the breast. This allows gentle compression and visualization of the breast while the X Ray is being taken.

Two X ray views of each breast will be taken.

The procedure maybe a little uncomfortable but it should not be painful.

It is best for pre-menopausal women to avoid taking a mammogram test during the time when the breasts might be tender.

AFTER THE TEST

Results of the test are usually sent to the referral physician within a few days.

The results are then given to the patient by the physician.

Sometimes a patient may be asked to do a second mammogram.

This may happen if further tests need to be done for suspicious signs of breast changes.

"According to the American Cancer Society, only 1 or 2 of every 1000 mammograms lead to a cancer diagnosis. About 10% of women tested by mammography will need to have an additional mammogram to clarify or confirm the findings of the first mammogram. Of these women who require a second mammogram for clarification and confirmation, only 8%-10% will need to have a biopsy. Approximately 80% of the results of these biopsies will be conditions other than breast cancer."

Patients who maybe pregnant or are pregnant must notify their physician or radiology staff of their condition. X Rays can be harmful to the fetus.

Self breast examination, doctor's examination and the having the recommended mammogram screening and follow up tests are keys to detecting early breast changes.
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