Digital mammography provides patients with the highest quality of care in the prevention and early detection of breast cancer.  From the patient’s point of view, a digital mammogram is like traditional film screen mammography.  Both use x-ray to generate images of the breast. However, instead of using film to capture and record the image, a digital mammogram uses a special detector to capture and convert x-ray energy into a digital image. The resulting digital images are immediately available to the radiologist for diagnosis.  The radiologist can view and manipulate the images on high-resolution computer monitors that enhance visualization of the structures within the breast tissue. They can also adjust brightness and contrast, and zoom in on specific areas to help detect small calcifications, masses, and other changes that may be signs of early cancer.
 
Because there is no waiting for film to be developed, digital mammography can significantly reduce the time patients spend in the breast center, as well as reduce the need for repeat exams due to under or over exposure.
 
Statistics demonstrate that one in eight women will develop breast cancer sometime in her life. The stage at which breast cancer is detected influences a woman’s survival. If detected early, the five-year survival rate is nearly 97%.  
 
The Valley Hospital and Medical Center’s Center for Women’s Imaging is committed to the fight against breast cancer. If you would like to schedule a mammogram, please call Centralized Scheduling at 473.7777.  If you have questions about the Center for Women’s Imaging, please contact 473.5455.  More about breast cancer.

Ultrasound

It is often routine that when there is something palpable on the breast exam but the mammogram is negative, an ultrasound is performed to look for a cyst. The mammogram cannot pick up cysts very well; it is better at picking up solid lesions like fibroadenomas (benign) or cancers.

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create a picture of breast tissue and project it onto a computer screen. During the painless procedure, a small pad called a transducer, which sends and receives sound waves, is moved across the breast. The computer then analyzes the sound waves and creates an image of the breast tissue.

Breast ultrasound, also known as sonography or ultrasonography, is frequently used to further evaluate breast abnormalities that are found with screening or diagnostic mammography or during a physician performed clinical breast exam.

Ultrasound does not duplicate the information found on a mammogram but is used as a complimentary evaluation. It also allows significant freedom in obtaining images of the breast from almost any orientation.

Assessing breast implants for leakage or rupture is another way ultrasound is used. Breast inflammation, where pockets of infection or abscesses may form, can be diagnosed and monitored by ultrasound.

Breast ultrasound is also employed to observe and guide a needle for several interventional procedures. These include cyst aspiration, fine needle aspiration, large core needle biopsy, and needle localization before surgical breast biopsy.