3D MAMMOGRAPHY

A mammogram is an X-ray image of your breasts used to screen for breast cancer. Mammograms play a key role in early breast cancer detection and help decrease breast cancer deaths.

A mammogram can be used either for screening or for diagnostic purposes. How often you should have a mammogram depends on your age and your risk of breast cancer.

During a mammogram, your breasts are compressed between two firm surfaces to spread out the breast tissue. Then an X-ray captures black-and-white images of your breasts that are displayed on a computer screen and examined by a doctor who looks for signs of cancer.

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TEST PREPARATION

If you’ve never had an 3D Mammography scan you might not know what to expect and this brief guide is designed to answer the questions that might be in your mind.

  • It’s important to tell us before your scan if you:
  • are (or might be) pregnant or breastfeeding
  • have breast problems, breast surgeries, breast implants or biopsies
  • have obtained any prior mammograms
  • New lumps or changes in your breasts (i.e. nipple discharge)
  • Women should consider scheduling mammography for a date one week after their period begins.
  • Recommended to wear comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing.
  • Deodorant, perfume, lotion and other products should not be applied to the underarm or torso before 3D mammography.
  • Once you have checked in at reception, a member of the radiography team will meet you, explain the procedure, go through your safety questionnaire with you and ask you to sign a consent form.
  • You will have the opportunity to ask any questions.
  • We will ask you to change into an examination gown. We provide somewhere to store your personal possessions.
  • Throughout the procedure, you will be looked after by the radiography team. They will explain what’s happening and will be there if you experience any discomfort.
  • The examination should take no more than half an hour.
  • The technologist operating the equipment will be able to see and hear you throughout the procedure.
  • You will be positioned before a 3D mammography machine and your breasts will be held in place by two compression plates causing slight discomfort.
  • During the brief X-ray exposure, you'll be asked to stand still and hold your breath.
  • There are no restrictions on normal activity, you can eat and drink normally, drive and return to work immediately after the scan.
  • A radiologist will examine the images shortly after your visit and send a report to your doctor or consultant, normally within a few days.
  • For ethical and professional reasons, we cannot discuss results with you. Only your doctor or consultant can do this.