FAQs for Patients

Digital mammography is based on the same basic principles as traditional mammography but uses newer technology. A special detector is used to convert x-ray energy into a digital image which is then stored as a computer file. It takes less time to get a digital mammogram done compared with a traditional mammogram, so women spend less time in the mammography suite. A major strength of digital mammography is that it has been shown to be better than traditional mammography in detecting cancer in certain groups of women. With digital mammography, the Radiologist interpreting the study reviews the images on a computer monitor and can manipulate the images to see things better. Because the images are stored digitally instead of printed on film, they can be shared with other specialists electronically if needed. This saves time and makes it easier to share necessary information between health care providers. Digital mammography uses even less radiation than traditional mammography.

Both use low dose x-rays to take specialized pictures of the breasts. A screening mammogram is for women who have no symptoms or signs of breast cancer and have never had breast cancer in the past. It aims to detect cancer in an early phase in order to improve the chances of successful treatment. Mammography is the only imaging test that has been proven to reduce deaths from breast cancer.

A diagnostic mammogram is done to evaluate a specific concern such as a lump noticed by a woman or her doctor, or to take a closer look at an abnormality found on a screening mammogram. Diagnostic mammography is also for women who have had breast cancer in the past, and for those who have breast implants for any reason. More pictures may be taken in order to better evaluate certain areas within the breast.

The following are some of the most common reasons that women get referred for diagnostic mammography:

• A breast lump or thickening
• Unusual breast discharge
• Concerning skin or nipple changes that don’t improve with usual treatments
• High risk of getting breast cancer
• History of breast cancer in the past
• Breast implants
• Further work-up is needed because of an abnormal screening mammogram
• Women aged 40-49 years who desire screening mammography may be referred to our clinic

If you are aged 50 years or older, and do not have any symptoms or signs of breast cancer, have never had breast cancer and do not have breast implants, you should get regular screening mammograms done at BreastCheck (a CancerCare screening program).

Once you register at the front desk, you will be seated in the reception area until you are called for your mammogram. A technologist will show you to a change room where you will undress from the waist up and put on a gown. The technologist will then take you to a private exam room where she will ask a few questions about your breast health and perform a physical breast examination to look for any lumps. She will then escort you to the mammography suite to perform your mammogram (see “What is a mammogram” above for more information). Once the proper images have been taken and checked by the Radiologist, you will be directed back to the change room and this will conclude your visit.

Sometimes, the Radiologist who looks at your mammogram will decide that an ultrasound should be done. As much as possible, we aim to do the ultrasound during the same visit. If this happens, the technologist will tell you that an ultrasound is needed and if you are agreeable to stay a bit longer, you will be taken to the ultrasound suite where a Radiologist (specialist physician) will perform the breast ultrasound. If you are unable to extend your visit, we can make arrangements for you to come back for the ultrasound within the next few days.

While there may be physical discomfort for a brief period during the mammogram, some patients find the mental anguish more trying.  It can be difficult, but it is important to be as relaxed as possible in preparation for and during the test.  There are also several other things to do in preparation (so as not to interfere with the digital images):

• Refrain from wearing a large amount of deodorant
• Refrain from wearing body talcum on or near the breast area
• Tie back long hair
• It is best to wear pants/skirts as opposed to dresses/one-piece outfits (as you will have to remove all clothing from the waist up)

The average mammogram appointment takes approximately 30 – 45 minutes. Sometimes extra images or a breast ultrasound may be needed so please be prepared to stay longer if necessary.

The Radiologist interpreting your study will create a written report for the clinician (doctor or nurse practitioner) who has referred you. Results usually get faxed to referring clinicians’ offices within 24 hours of your visit and your clinician will discuss the results with you. If you do not hear back from your clinician within a few days of your appointment, please call their office and ask for your results.

In certain situations, the Radiologist will decide that a breast ultrasound is more appropriate than a mammogram. This most commonly happens with women who are younger than 35 to 40 years of age and have a breast lump. Sometimes, ultrasound is all that is needed whereas other times a mammogram is also done. The decision on whether to do a mammogram, ultrasound or both is made under the direction of a Radiologist (specialist physician) based on the particular situation. As much as possible, we aim to perform ultrasound and mammography during the same visit.

Breast ultrasound is always performed by a Radiologist. No radiation is used during breast ultrasound.

Yes. Talk to your doctor about getting a referral.

We do not permit anyone to go with you in the mammography suite for safety reasons.

No. We are not able to accept walk-ins or self-referrals.

Appointments are made by getting a referral to our clinic from your doctor or nurse practitioner.

It is very important to tell your technologist if you are or think you may be pregnant. Usually, breast problems in pregnant or breastfeeding women can be assessed using ultrasound alone. Mammography is generally avoided in these situations but may be necessary in certain cases.

Yes. Our technologists are very experienced in doing mammograms on women with breast implants. It is important to tell your technologist if you have implants because she will need to use a different technique in order to get a high quality mammogram.

Yes. Because a very small percentage of breast cancers occur in males, a man with a concerning lump should get a diagnostic mammogram.