Mammography
"The Clinic has a state-of-the-art digital mammograph that performs a three-dimensional study of the breast, allowing for greater diagnostic accuracy".
DR. LUIS PINA INSAUSTI RADIOLOGIST. BREAST PATHOLOGY AREA
What is a mammogram and why is it important?
Mammography is a type of medical test that uses X-rays to visualise the inside of the breast. It is the ideal test, in most cases, for the study of the mammary gland.
Breast cancer is successfully treated when it is detected at an early stage, which is why it is essential to use diagnostic techniques to detect it as early as possible. To this end, screening tests, such as mammography, are carried out regularly from the age of 40 onwards in the case of women.
This means that the majority of breast tumours currently detected are in very early stages, which greatly increases the chances of success.
The Clínica Universidad de Navarra's Breast Pathology Department has a state-of-the-art digital mammograph, which makes it possible to carry out all the necessary tests and obtain a diagnosis in less than 48 hours. Direct digital mammography obtains images of very good quality and resolution, thus reducing the radiation dose received by the patient.
Patients with breast implants also benefit from this technology. Similarly, in the screening of women under 50 years of age with dense breasts, breast cancer detection is improved compared to analogue technology.
When should I have a mammogram?
Normally a woman should have her first or baseline test at the age of 40. This screening should be performed at an earlier age if any of the symptoms mentioned above are present.
After mammography screening, a woman should have a mammogram every one to two years until the age of 50. However, the periodicity should be discussed with a professional.
After the age of 50, an annual mammogram is recommended. These are some of the diseases for which mammography tests can be ordered:
- Diagnostic study of breast cancer
- Fibrocystic mastopathy
- Mammary nodule
- Breast cyst
Are you interested in this test?
If you wish to carry out this or other medical tests,
you can request an appointment through the following form with our expert team.
How is a mammogram performed?
To perform a mammogram, the breast is placed in a special machine called a mammograph. This machine is designed so that X-rays pass through the breast and the image is captured. In modern digital mammography, the image is captured directly onto a digital detector instead of film.
For each exposure, the breast is compressed, resulting in a clearer, sharper image, reduced radiation dose and minimised motion. The most advanced 3D mammographs can perform a three-dimensional study of the breast (tomosynthesis), which improves diagnostic accuracy and the detection of early stage cancers.
It is also possible to detect tumours hidden by conventional mammography. Ultrasound is often used for this purpose as well, thus providing the most reliable and accurate diagnosis of the breast.
Proper preparation for a mammogram is essential for accurate results. If you have any previous mammograms, it is very important to bring them with you for comparison with the new study. Here are some preliminary indications to take into account:
- It is advisable to avoid using deodorants, creams or lotions on the underarms or chest on the day of the exam, as these products can interfere with the quality of the image.
- Wear comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing, and consider scheduling your mammogram at a time of the month when your breasts are not tender, such as after your menstrual period.
- Inform the staff if you have breast implants or any history of breast surgery so they can take extra precautions during the exam.
Following these steps will help make the procedure faster and more accurate.
Frequently asked questions about mammograms
The recommended age to start mammograms depends on several factors, such as family history and risk factors. In general, medical guidelines suggest that women begin annual or biennial mammograms at age 40 or older.
For those with an increased risk of breast cancer, such as a family history, it may be advisable to start earlier, around age 30, as medically indicated.
The frequency may also vary: some organisations recommend annual mammograms, while others suggest mammograms every two years after the age of 50. Consultation with a specialist is essential to personalise your mammography schedule and optimise early detection of breast cancer.
Mammography may cause discomfort due to compression of the breasts between the plates of the mammography equipment, which is necessary to obtain clear images.
The level of pain or discomfort varies from person to person, depending on the sensitivity of the breasts and the timing of the menstrual cycle. To reduce discomfort, it is recommended that the mammogram be scheduled on days when the breasts are less sensitive.
Although compression may be uncomfortable, it is brief and essential to detect any abnormalities in their early stages, which increases the likelihood of early diagnosis.
If a mammogram yields abnormal results, it does not necessarily mean that breast cancer is present, but further testing is crucial.
Abnormal results may indicate the presence of masses, microcalcifications or asymmetric densities, which require detailed analysis. The next step is usually a diagnostic mammogram or breast ultrasound to investigate further. In some cases, a breast biopsy may be necessary.
The medical team will evaluate the results and recommend next steps. It is important to remember that early detection and proper evaluation are critical to successful treatment if an abnormality is detected.
A normal mammogram result means that no visible abnormalities were found, which is a good indicator of health. However, a normal result does not completely eliminate the risk of breast cancer.
Mammograms are effective screening tools, but they do not detect 100% of cases, especially in people with dense breast tissue.
For this reason, it is essential to continue to have regular mammograms and to remain alert to any changes in the breasts. Breast self-examination and annual medical check-ups are also valuable recommendations for early detection.
Individuals with breast implants can and should also have mammograms, although the procedure may require special techniques to obtain clear images.
Implants can make it difficult to visualize some areas of breast tissue, so technicians use the Eklund technique, which displaces the implant and allows evaluation of the breast tissue.
It is important to inform the staff that you have implants before the exam, so that they can take the necessary precautions and obtain the best possible image without compromising the safety of the implants.
Mammograms are safe procedures, although, as with any X-ray test, there is minimal radiation exposure. The radiation dose in a mammogram is very low and is considered safe, even for periodic examinations. In cases of particularly sensitive breasts, there may be temporary discomfort due to compression.
There is also a risk of false positive or negative results, which may require additional testing. However, the benefits of early detection far outweigh the risks, as timely mammography can be key in the prevention and effective treatment of breast cancer.
IN NAVARRE AND MADRID
Where do we do it?
IN NAVARRA AND MADRID
The Breast Pathology Area
of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra
The Clinic is the most technologically advanced private hospital in Spain in a single center. For this reason, the Breast Pathology Area is able to facilitate diagnosis 24 hours after performing the tests and begin treatment in approximately 48 hours.
Our nursing staff is specialized in breast pathology and performs patient education, telephone follow-up and advice, before and after surgery.
What diseases do we treat?
- Breast Cancer
- Inflammatory diseases of the breast
- Benign tumors: fibrocystic mastopathy, breast fibroadenoma, etc.
- Risk lesions that require vigilance
Why at the Clinica?
- Prestigious professionals who are international references.
- Speed in the diagnosis and treatment of breast problems.
- Specialized nursing for the best care of our patients.
Our team of professionals
Specialists in Breast Pathology with experience in performing mammograms
