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 UNION HOSPITAL CLINTON- IMAGING SERVICES
Mammography Definitions
Screening Mammogram:
A screening mammogram is performed on patients who are not currently experiencing any breast problems.
Preparation Instructions
Part of the evaluation of mammograms involves the comparison of both breasts. Therefore, both breasts will be examined with only a few exceptions (i.e. recent mammogram with suspicious lesions for localization).
- Please schedule you appointment four to five days after the beginning of your last menstrual period. If you are breast-feeding, please schedule your mammogram no sooner than six weeks after you have stopped breastfeeding your child (because the breasts are too engorged to get an accurate study).
- Do not drink, eat or take any caffeine products (see list provided) for at least 72 hours prior to mammogram. Caffeine sometimes causes breast tenderness and thus, would make compression more difficult.
- Perform your usual bathing routine prior to mammogram. Do not use deodorant or body power. However, if you would like to apply deodorant after the procedure, please bring your deodorant with you.
- Wear slacks or a skirt, since it will be more convenient and comfortable for you and the technician.
- Since a pertinent history must be compiled for accurate interpretation, please provide the doctor and/or technician with all needed medical information (i.e. list of medications).
- If pregnancy is suspected, please inform your doctor immediately.
The exam lasts approximately 30 minutes.
Diagnostic Mammograms:
A diagnostic mammogram is performed on women and men who are currently experiencing breast lumps, pain, or nipple discharge.
Preparation Instructions
Part of the evaluation of mammograms involves the comparison of both breasts. Therefore, both breasts will be examined with only a few exceptions (i.e. recent mammogram with suspicious lesions for localization).
- Please schedule you appointment four to five days after the beginning of your last menstrual period. If you are breast-feeding, please schedule your mammogram no sooner than six weeks after you have stopped breastfeeding your child (because the breasts are too engorged to get an accurate study).
- Do not drink, eat or take any caffeine products (see list provided) for at least 72 hours prior to mammogram. Caffeine sometimes causes breast tenderness and thus, would make compression more difficult.
- Perform your usual bathing routine prior to mammogram. Do not use deodorant or body power. However, if you would like to apply deodorant after the procedure, please bring your deodorant with you.
- Wear slacks or a skirt, since it will be more convenient and comfortable for you and the technician.
- Since a pertinent history must be compiled for accurate interpretation, please provide the doctor and/or technician with all needed medical information (i.e. list of medications).
- If pregnancy is suspected, please inform your doctor immediately.
The exam lasts approximately 1 hour.
Needle Localization:
If a suspicious area has been identified on a mammogram, your doctor might order a biopsy to remove the suspicious area from the breast. A needle is place into the breast during a mammogram to help the surgeon identify the area that needs removed. Talk to your doctor about prep for this exam.
The mammography portion of the exam lasts approximately 1 hour.
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