Mammogram - Screening and Diagnostic

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Mammogram – Screening and Diagnostic

Mammogram (screening and diagnostic) is the x-ray image produced by mammography, a procedure used to screen for breast cancer or to help diagnose a known or suspected breast abnormality. Mammography produces images called mammograms that doctors use to evaluate breast tissue. Screening is important for the early detection of any cancer in the breast and may increase patient survival if cancer is diagnosed. All women over age 40 as well as some younger individuals if indicated by family, personal history, or other reason are recommended to have annual screening evaluation. Both breasts should be imaged by mammography. Diagnostic mammography by be performed for one or both breasts. It involves special views of the breast to help further evaluate the findings initially identified on screening mammograms or to further evaluate palpable breast lesions (lumps). Preparation for both screening and diagnostic mammography is similar. Compression of the breasts is important for accurate interpretation of the images. The exam takes only a few minutes. For screening exams, patients receive a letter with results. For diagnostic exams, patients will wait for a specialist to study the images. Any necessary additional imaging tests will be performed that day and a verbal or written report will be given.

The diagnostic and therapeutic services provided by UAB Radiology play an important role in the comprehensive care delivered at UAB, and Radiology works with every department within UAB Medicine. Our radiology and interventional radiology physicians are national leaders in their field and widely published in peer-reviewed journals and textbooks. They are actively involved in testing and teaching for new techniques and equipment, and they partner with your other physicians to deliver care. UAB Radiology team members are committed to safety and use the American College of Radiology guidelines for dosage and safety procedures. UAB Interventional Radiology’s new ambulatory clinic – located within The Kirklin Clinic of UAB Hospital – provides patients with enhanced pre-procedure evaluations, follow-up services, and more comprehensive care for complex conditions.

As part of a leading academic medical center, UAB Radiology oversees or participates in clinical trials that may provide new opportunities for low-dose drugs, more effective tests, and other new techniques and treatments that are not available elsewhere in the area. The extensive experience and expertise of our radiologists and technologists help ensure that the most accurate and in-depth testing is used in evaluating and treating your condition. We use the latest interventional devices and most advanced imaging techniques, including fluoroscopy, ultrasound, sonogram, and CT (computed tomography) scans. We perform an average of 7,600 CT scans and 3,600 sonograms each month, all while making your comfort and convenience our top priority. Our efficient, attentive staff and the availability of multiple imaging units will help your radiology visit go smoothly.

As a large teaching hospital, UAB Medicine is on the forefront of imaging equipment, and we frequently play a role in improving traditional and emerging imaging technologies, including some designed to reduce radiation exposure during tests. One example is the GE Healthcare CT 750 HD CT scanner, which is used at the UAB Radiology clinic to obtain high-definition images while reducing patients’ radiation exposure.

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