Mammography

Mammography is a procedure that involves taking x-rays of the breasts to detect breast cysts and tumors, especially those that cannot be felt (palpable) by the fingers during a physical examination. A mammogram is the photographic result. The procedure does not prevent breast cancer; it is used to detect cancer early when it is more likely to be successfully treated. However, there are some breast cancers that are not visible even on mammograms.

Reason for Procedure

Evaluate breast symptoms such as lumps, persistent pain, and nipple discharge
Screen for breast cancer
Helps differentiate between noncancerous breast disease and breast cancer

Risk

Non Expected

Description of Procedure

All clothing above the waist is removed and a gown provided that opens in the front
You will stand in front of the X-ray equipment
Each breast will be compressed between 2 plastic plates in 2 or more positions for the x-rays. Compressing the breasts can be uncomfortable, but it minimizes the amount of radiation required to get a clear image
After the first films are taken, they are checked to make sure they are readable. If not, the procedure will be repeated

Expected Outcomes

There are normally no physical side effects from the test itself
As a screening test, results usually reveal normal breast tissue with no abnormal masses or calcification
Any findings that suggest cancer require further tests (such as biopsy) for confirmation

Possible Complications

Misdiagnosis; missing cancers that are there or mistaking benign lumps for cancerous ones

Postprocedure Care

General Measures

There are no special self-care measures to take following the test
Test results that are suggestive often require a needle aspiration, biopsy and / or ultrasound testing
Further testing may be recommended even if the mammogram results are negative, such as when there is an undiagnosed abnormality on physical examination or unexplained symptoms occur
Follow-up treatment steps will depend on the specific diagnosis
Routine mammograms are recommended for the following age groups:

Around the age of 40 years, all women should have their first mammogram
Between ages 40 and 50 years, women should have a mammogram every 1 to 2 years
After age 50 years, all women should have a mammogram every year
Women at high risk for breast cancer (anyone with a close relative who has had breast cancer) should have a mammogram every 1 to 2 years beginning at age 35 years

Additional information is available from the American Cancer Society web site www.cancer.org or http:// www.nci.nih.gov

Medication

Medicine is not necessary for the procedure itself

Activity

No restrictions

Diet

No specific diet

Notify Our Office At (012 320 2725/6 ) If:

You have not had a mammogram as recommended by your age group