Mammography

What is a Mammogram
A screening mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to detect breast changes in women who have no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. It usually involves two x-rays of each breast. Mammograms make it possible to detect tumors that cannot be felt. Mammograms can also find microcalcifications (tiny deposits of calcium in the breast) that sometimes indicate the presence of breast cancer

Preparing for a Screening Mammogram
Patients scheduled for a mammogram at CMI should not wear any deodorant on the day of the exam and wash to remove any talc or powder deodorants prior to the Mammogram to avoid artifacts that mimic breast disease. Wear comfortable and loose-fitting two-piece clothing without metal such as snaps, zippers or belt buckles that can reduce image quality. Limit metal jewelry for the same reasons. Patients who may be pregnant should inform the Technologist prior to the exam.

During a Screening Mammogram
Normally, two images are taken of each breast by a CMI Technologist. Each breast will be firmly positioned between two plates on the mammography equipment. While two pictures are generally captured of each breast, it is fairly common for additional images to be captured or for women to be asked to return to CMI for more imaging to ensure a thorough examination has been completed.

After a Mammogram
Once an exam in complete, the detailed images of the breast tissue will be reviewed by a Radiologist. A report generated by the Radiologist will be forwarded to the patient's physician.

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