Mammography
Putting Wellness in Focus With Mammography
Mammography is a specialized
medical imaging technique that is primarily used to screen and diagnose breast
diseases such as breast cancer. It utilises X-rays to take high-quality images
of the breasts, known as mammograms, to screen, evaluate, and determine the
changes in breast tissue and detect the presence of cysts, tumors, or other
abnormalities. Mammography plays an essential role in determining and
identifying breast cancer and its symptoms and risks at an early stage and
enables timely and accurate medical intervention. Often considered as Gold
Standard for detection of breast cancer, regular screening mammography can help
in detection of cancer even before the symptoms manifest.
Overview of the Key Aspects of Mammography
Types of Mammography
There are two types of
mammography commonly and routinely performed for screening and diagnosis;
Screening Mammography and Diagnostic Mammography.
Screening mammography is the most commonly performed test for
routine breast cancer screening in women who show no signs or symptoms of
breast cancer. It is crucial in detecting breast cancer risk at an early,
treatable stage.
Diagnostic Mammography is often performed when there are signs and
symptoms of breast disease such as lumps, pains, tumour-like growth, or nipple
discharge. This screening tool provides an in-depth assessment and
understanding of the disease progression and helps in creating a treatment
strategy.
Procedure:
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On the day of procedure, patients will be advised to
wear two-piece clothing as they might need to get undressed from the waist up
for the screening.
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It is advisable to not wear perfume, lotions, or
deodorants on the chest area as they can interfere with the image quality.
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The mammography technologist will check patients’
medical history and ask relevant questions regarding patients’ symptoms.
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Patients will be then positioned in front of the
mammography machine and the technologist will then position the breast on a
clear, plastic plate.
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The mammography machine’s upper plate will then
gradually be lowered, compressing the breast on the plate for imaging.
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The X-ray beam will be then subjected on to the breast
for a clear imaging and two images - one of each breast will be taken for
interpretation.
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The images taken will then be interpreted by the
radiologist who will determine if additional tests are needed.
Benefits:
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The procedure lasts only a few seconds
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Involves minimal exposure to radiation
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Helps in detecting breast cancer at an early stage
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Enables formulation of personalised treatment plans
based on the stage of the disease
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Effectively detects even the small abnormalities in
breast and surrounding tissues
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It also helps in guiding diagnostic procedures such as
MRI or biopsy and aisa in accurate diagnosis
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Is cost-effective and less invasive as compared to
other diagnostic procedures
If the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding, it is important to let the healthcare provider know as the smallest exposure to radiation can be potentially harmful to the foetus. Avoid using lotions, powders, moisturisers, or perfumes on the day of scheduled scan as it can interfere with the imaging and diagnosis. In case any discomfort is caused during the compression stage, let the healthcare provider know so they can adjust the compression as needed. If the patient has had any breast implants or surgical procedures, it is advisable to inform the healthcare provider as special techniques might be needed to ensure clear imaging during the procedure.
