Digital Mammography
Digital mammography uses computers and specially designed digital detectors to produce an image that can be displayed on a high-resolution computer monitor and can be transmitted and stored like any computer file.
For patients, having a digital mammogram is very much like having a conventional screen-film mammogram. Both film-based and digital mammography use compression and x-rays to create clear images of the inside of the breast. But digital mammography offers us at Red Bud Regional Hospital a few benefits that traditional mammography does not, including the ability to manipulate images (zoom, adjust the contrast) and potentially reduce radiation exposure, as being able to adjust the image’s brightness and contrast reduces the need for retakes due to over or under exposure.
What to Expect:
A technologist will position your breast on the platform of the mammography machine and compress it with a plastic paddle. Breast compression allows the radiologist to stabilize the breast, visualize all the breast tissue, and view any possible abnormalities in the tissue. You will be asked to change positions so that the breast can be viewed from different angles. The process will be repeated for the other breast. The entire exam generally takes less than 30 minutes.
Preparing for your exam:
- Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam.
- Describe any breast symptoms or problems you may have to the technologist performing the exam.
- If possible, obtain prior mammograms and make them available to the radiologist at the time of the current exam.
The results of your mammogram are interpreted by radiologists using Computer Aided Detection (CAD) technology. The report is sent to your doctor, who can discuss the results with you.
For your convenience, Red Bud Regional Hospital offers early morning and weekend appointments for digital mammography.
Screening Mammograms
Saturday: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Diagnostic and Screening Mammograms
Monday- Friday: beginning at 7:00 am
You can request a mammogram by calling for an appointment. Some insurance companies, however, will not pay for exams performed without a physician’s order. Check with your insurance provider to see if a referral from your primary care physician is necessary.
Schedule an Appointment
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