A mammogram is an x-ray procedure used specifically to X-ray the breasts. Every effort will be made by the Mammographer to ensure you are as comfortable as possible during the examination. Patients will be able to return to normal activities immediately after the procedure.
The mammography procedure is used by doctors and specialists to diagnose breast cancer, and various other diseases of the breast, for example, fibroid adenoma. An ultrasound examination may also be recommended to obtain further information. This is usually done when breasts are especially dense.
Mammography can detect tumors that are too small to be felt and have reduced the rate of terminal cases of breast cancer in patients aged between 40 and 70.
Patients who are considered at high risk of developing breast cancer (i.e. due to a family history of breast cancer) may also be advised by their doctor to undergo regular testing.
There is a small amount of radiation used; however the benefits outweigh the risks from the radiation.
Your details will be checked, and your examination carried out by a radiographer who has specialised in breast work or more commonly called a Mammographer. Your will be asked to undress from the waist up. It is recommended that you wear a loose, comfortable, two part outfit. The whole appointment takes less than half an hour and the actual mammogram will take around 5- 10 minutes.
