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How is a diagnostic mammogram
different from a screening mammogram?
A diagnostic mammogram usually
involves taking more pictures of the breast than is done in a typical screening
mammogram. In addition to the types of views done during a screening
mammogram, your diagnostic mammogram may also involve spot compression and
magnification views to zoom in on a particular area of the breast.
How long will I be at your office for a diagnostic
mammogram?
When you are called back for a diagnostic mammogram, plan
to spend at least two hours in our office. In this one visit, we usually will
perform all procedures necessary to give you a diagnosis and plan the next step
that you take.
What other procedures might be
performed?
That depends on your individual
situation. However, we can do most procedures needed to pinpoint or assess the
cause of an area of concern in our office. These include an
ultrasound,
a
physical breast examination, a
cyst aspiration, a
fine-needle
aspiration and a
stereotactic
core biopsy.
When will I get the results?
Diagnostic mammograms are performed only when Dr. Bertrand
is in the office. After the mammogram and any other tests are complete, you
will receive the results. Dr. Bertrand reads the mammogram in the center’s
diagnostic mammogram reading room, examines any additional areas highlighted by
the R2 ImageChecker (a computer-aided
detection tool) and reads any other tests that were done before giving the
results to the waiting patient.
What if cancer is found?
To start with, expect a hug. Dr. Bertrand has been on the
receiving end of this diagnosis, and she knows how frightening it can be. If
breast cancer is found, she will spend time talking with you and your family
members about your results and what your next steps should be. She will answer
any questions that you have. Before you leave, our office will set up an
appointment for you with a surgeon
at
Central Carolina
Surgery.
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Mammogram
