Mammography/breast imaging and intervention

There are two types of mammograms:

• Screening mammograms are performed regularly for preventive care in women who have no breast problems. They are used to discover breast cancers that are not otherwise apparent.
• Diagnostic mammograms are performed to obtain more detailed information about an area of concern discovered on a screening mammogram, or on physical examination or due to a woman’s symptom.  Examples include a lump, discharge from the nipple, breast pain or discomfort or changes in the breast skin.
  
  

What you should know about mammography/breast imaging and intervention 

• Mammography uses a low-dose X-ray system to see inside the breasts. The resulting image is called a mammogram. 
• Mammography is a noninvasive procedure. It is typically painless, though some women experience discomfort during the procedure due to breast compression.
• The American College of Radiology and other leading health care organizations recommend yearly screening mammography beginning at age 40 for women of low to average risk of developing breast cancer over their lifetimes. Additional screening scenarios may be recommended by specialists for women at high risk for developing breast cancer.
  
  

Why choose Geisinger for your mammography/breast imaging and intervention?

• Our radiologists are experienced and have fellowship training in breast imaging.
• We use computer-aided detection (CAD) to highlight suspicious areas in the breast. This is similar to a second-look at the mammogram.
• We offer 3-D mammograms or digital breast tomosynthesis which aids in the evaluation of dense breast tissue where abnormalities may be hidden or obscured.
• For the investigation of abnormalities and further evaluations as needed, we offer breast ultrasound (sonograms) and breast MRI.
• We perform image-guided biopsies using ultrasound, stereotactic mammography or MRI, as needed.  Most biopsy results are benign, or non-cancerous. For biopsies showing cancer, the pre-operative diagnosis prior to surgery improves treatment planning and outcomes.
• Our Comprehensive Breast Program is the region's only coordinated breast care program where on-site radiologists, pathologists, surgeons, psychologists, geneticists, nurses and technologists collaborate to screen, detect, diagnose and treat breast disease in women. Cancer specialists such as medical oncologists and radiation oncologists are also part of the team.
• Women with a strong family history of breast cancer or who have a particular worry about developing breast cancer can be referred to Geisinger’s Risk Assessment Clinic for counseling and advice as well as genetic testing if warranted.