Being a fully digital imaging center, we offer Picture
Archiving Communication System. This means that your primary physician may
access the PACS from any computer to view your exam images or results.
Heights Diagnostic believes in highest level of service. Our
board-certified radiologists are available on-site and have an outstanding
reputation from over 30 years of experience.
Digital Mammography at Heights Diagnostic Imaging Center
Screening Mammography
Mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast cancers
because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a
patient or physician can feel them. Current guidelines from the U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the American Cancer
Society (ACS), the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American
College of Radiology (ACR) recommend screening mammography every year
for women, beginning at age 40. Research has shown that annual
mammograms lead to early detection of breast cancers, when they are most
curable and breast-conservation therapies are available.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) adds that women who have had breast cancer and those who are at increased risk due to a genetic history of breast cancer should seek expert medical advice about whether they should begin screening before age 40 and about the frequency of screening.
Diagnostic Mammography
Diagnostic mammography is used to evaluate a patient with abnormal
clinical findings—such as a breast lump or lumps—that have been found by
the woman or her doctor. Diagnostic mammography may also be done after
an abnormal screening mammogram in order to evaluate the area of concern
on the screening exam.
Preparations
Do not schedule your mammogram for the week before your period if your breasts are usually tender during this time. The best time for a mammogram is one week following your period. Always inform your doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.
The American Cancer Society recommends you:
- Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam. These can appear on the mammogram as calcium spots.
- Describe any breast symptoms or problems 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.
- Ask when your results will be available; do not assume the results are normal if you do not hear from your doctor or the mammography facility.