MAMMOGRAPHY
Mammography, also commonly referred to as a mammogram, is a type of x-ray of the breasts used to screen for breast cancer in women and to help diagnose breast cancer in women who have a lump in their breast. If you are a woman aged between 50 and 74 years, Cancer Council Australia recommends that you have a mammogram every 2 years to screen for breast cancer.
What is 3D Breast Tomosynthesis (3D Mammogram) ?
A 3D mammogram (breast tomosynthesis) is an imaging test that combines multiple breast X-rays to create a three-dimensional picture of the breast.
When used for breast cancer screening, 3D mammogram machines create 3D images and standard 2D mammogram images.
3D Breast Tomosynthesis is the newest technology for imaging of the breast which is more comfortable than a mammogram, produces 3D detailed imaging and can reduce the need for follow-up imaging and improve detection in dense breast tissue.
Hologic 3D, is the world leader in mammography machines. It not only delivers exceptionally sharp images, but greater patient comfort and low patient dose.
Please bring your referral (letter from your doctor) and your Medicare and/or Pension Health care card to your appointment.
Bring all previous mammograms and reports along with you.
Please be on time to ensure that there is enough time available to perform the procedure.
It is recommended that you wear two-piece clothing. Some toiletries can produce unusual appearances on the films, so please do not use deodorant or talcum powder on the day of your mammogram.
Please inform the radiographer prior to the examination if you are or if you suspect you may be pregnant.
You will be given a gown and asked to remove neck jewellery and clothing from the waist up.
For the procedure itself, you stand in front of our brand-new 3D Breast Tomosynthesis Hologic machine specially designed for mammography. A member of our team places one of your breasts on a platform and raises or lowers the platform to match your height. Your head, arms and torso are positioned in order to allow an unobstructed view of your breast.
Your breast is gradually pressed against the platform by a clear plastic plate. Pressure is applied for a few seconds to spread out the breast tissue so that a clear image can be taken.
The 3D mammography machine will move from one side to the other as it collects images. You will be asked to stand still and hold your breath for a few seconds to minimise any movement.
Once the image is taken, the pressure on your breast will be immediately released and the machine will be repositioned to take an image of your breast from the side. The process is then repeated on the other breast.
After your examination, the images from your study will be available on the Medscan Z-tech app. A report, along with the images will be sent directly to your referring doctor. Medscan will store digital copies of all studies on our secure database for comparison with any future examinations. All images are available online with the Medscan Z-link app