What to Expect at your Mammogram
What to Expect
Your healthcare provider can help you decide whether you need a 2D or a low-dose 3D mammogram. A phyisician's order may, or may not, be required for a mammogram - this may vary. If additional breast imaging is necessary, breast ultrasound, breast MRI or breast biopsy services are also available. You can count on our staff to greet you in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
- 2-D digital mammography has been shown to detect significantly more cancers than film mammography, particularly in women under age 50, women who have dense breast tissue, and pre/postmenopausal women.
- Low dose 3D mammography is an more advanced, clinically proven screening and diagnostic tool for early breast cancer detection. 3D mammography equipment generates multiple low-dose images at different angles. This creates a detailed 3D image of the breast tissue, providing greater visibility for the radiologist.
- Breast ultrasounds are used to perform an image-guided overview of the breast and can help pinpoint any areas of concern or diseases that may be present.
- Breast MRI scans are typically given to patients who are genetically predisposed to breast cancer or those with a strong family or personal history. For these patients, the American Cancer Society recommends both a mammogram and an MRI annually, beginning at age 30. For patients who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, breast MRI gives surgeons and oncologists a clear picture of the extent of the cancer to ensure that proper treatment is delivered.
- Breast biopsies are performed to obtain a tissue sample from a suspicious area in the breast, so that the cells in the tissue can be evaluated under a microscope. The pathologist then determines what type, if any, disease is present. Fauquier Health offers ultrasound, stereotactic (X-ray) and MRI guided breast biopsies.