Breast Imaging - Digital Mammography

Mammography continues to represent the most important single imaging exam in the fight against breast cancer.   The exam is one of the most difficult of all radiological imaging studies to interpret and for this reason, Renaissance Imaging, in contrast to many other practices, only allows specialist  radiologists with dedicated fellowship training in mammography to interpret the examinations.  The radiologist interpreting the study is the single most important factor in achieving an accurate diagnosis.  The technology is also important and ALL locations where Renaissance provides mammography services utilize only the latest state of the art DIGITAL mammography equipment.

Mammography can be divided into two general  categories: screening and diagnostic. A screening mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breast using very low levels of radiation. It is currently the best available tool for detecting breast cancer when no symptoms exist.

A screening mammogram procedure does not require a referral from your doctor, however, every patient must have a primary care provider to whom we can send results. Renaissance Imaging  does not accept patients without a primary care provider.

A diagnostic mammogram is a problem-solving mammogram performed under a number of different circumstances including  further assessment of a  known breast mass, to further evaluate a suspicious finding on a prior screening mammogram, and in patients  being followed after treatment for breast cancer.  In contrast to screening mammography, a radiologist expert in breast imaging supervises each diagnostic mammogram and frequently see the patient following the procedure.

The screening mammogram procedure involves two x-rays of each breast. Compression of the breast during the x-ray procedure is required. Compressing the breast reduces the radiation and improves the image spreading out the tissues. Compression of the breast may be uncomfortable but usually only lasts a few seconds.

A registered radiologic technologist will perform your procedure. A  fellowship trained radiologist in breast imaging  will then evaluate the images and issue a report to your primary care provider.  Every patient will receive a letter indicating findings in lay terms

After evaluating your images, the radiologist will prepare a dictated report, which will be sent to your physician. Your physician will review the radiologist’s findings and communicate the results to you.

Breast Imaging Services: