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. MAMMARY PATHOLOGY AREA
What is a mammography?
Mammography is the ideal test in most cases for the study of the mammary gland.
Breast cancer is successfully treated when detected at an early stage, it is essential to use diagnostic techniques to detect it as soon as possible. To this end, screening tests are performed periodically on women from the age of 40 onwards.
This means that most breast tumors detected today are in very early stages, which greatly increases the chances of success.
The Clinica has in the facilities of the Mammary Pathology Area, a last generation digital mammograph, which makes possible to practice all the necessary tests and to obtain the diagnosis in less than 48 hours.
The direct digital mammography obtains images of very good quality and resolution reducing the dose of radiation that the patient receives.
Patients with breast implants also benefit from this technology. Likewise, in the explorations of women under 50 years of age with dense breasts, the detection of breast cancer is improved with respect to analogical technology.
When is mammography indicated?
Normally a woman should have her first study or "baseline" at age 40.
This study should be done at a younger age if there are any signs or symptoms of the above or a family history of breast cancer.
After the basal mammography study, a woman should have a mammogram every one or two years until the age of 50 (the exact frequency should be discussed with your doctor).
After age 50, an annual mammogram is recommended.
Diseases in which mammography tests are requested:
- Diagnostic study of breast cancer.
- Fibrocystic mastopathy.
- Breast nodule.
- Breast cysts.
Do you have any of these diseases?
You may need to have a mammogram
How is mammography performed?
Performance of mammography
X-rays are obtained by placing the breast on a special machine called a mammograph, which is designed to pass the beam of rays through the breast and capture the image on x-ray-sensitive film.
For each exposure, the breast is held in compression so that the image is as clear and sharp as possible.
Often, the breast is also examined using tomosynthesis, which allows a multiplanar study of the breast, avoiding overlapping structures. In this way, hidden tumours can be detected in conventional mammography. For this purpose, ultrasound is also often used, and thus make the most reliable and accurate diagnosis of the breast.
Mammography Preparation
If you have any previous mammograms, it is very important to take them for comparison with the current study.
On the day of the scan, you should not use talcum powder, perfumes or deodorants. A comfortable bra is recommended.
You may continue your usual medication, unless otherwise instructed.
Frequently asked questions about mammography
The recommended age to start having mammograms depends on several factors, such as family history and risk factors.
In general, medical guidelines suggest that women begin annual or biennial mammograms starting at age 40.
For those with a higher risk of breast cancer, such as a family history, it may be advisable to start earlier, around the age of 30, according to medical indication.
Frequency can also vary: some organizations recommend annual mammograms, while others suggest mammograms every two years after age 50.
Consultation with a specialist is essential to personalize the mammography schedule and optimize early detection of breast cancer.
Proper preparation for a mammogram is essential for accurate results.
- It is advisable to avoid using deodorants, creams or lotions on the underarms or chest on the day of the exam, as these products may 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.
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.
Where do we do it?
IN NAVARRE 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
