mammography

Every day we learn more about breast cancer and how to win the battle against it. One fact is very clear – early detection can save a woman’s life. Fortunately, breast cancer is highly detectable through digital mammography screening. And if it’s detected early, before it spreads, 95 percent of women will be alive five years later.

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray screening of the breast. It is the most valuable tool in early detection of breast cancer. A mammogram allows your doctor to identify breast cancer before a lump or mass can even be felt. The earlier the detection, the more treatment options you may have available to you, and the better your chance to survive cancer.

How is a mammogram performed?

The procedure involves one x-ray from the side of the breast and one from the top. The breast is compressed for the duration of the x-ray to improve the image, but it only takes a few seconds. A female registered radiologic technologist performs the exam.

What is digital mammography?

Asheville Breast Center is proud to offer digital mammography, which is the latest technological advancement in mammogram screening. While the patient’s experience is very similar to that experienced with previous technology, how the images are captured lets your doctor focus more on areas of concern. Digital mammography has been shown to reduce the amount of radiation received during an exam by 40 percent, while finding 28 percent more cancers in women.

How will I know the results of my exam?

Exam results are interpreted by a radiologist specializing in mammography. The results are then phone, faxed or mailed to the referring physician. Your physician will contact you if problems are suspected or further studies should be done.

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