At Asante Imaging, we are committed to offering the finest care in a friendly and supportive environment. Our team of highly skilled and experienced technologists are always discreet and professional, giving women peace of mind that their health is in good hands.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an exceptional tool that uses low-dose radiation to X-ray the breast. It is key to identifying breast cancer in its earliest stages, when it may be too small to feel as a lump during a breast self-examination or by your healthcare provider. A screening mammogram is routinely used to look for early tissue changes in a women without breast symptoms. The results allow a radiologist to detect calcifications, cysts, and fibroadenomas (solid lumps of normal breast cells). Women 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health.
For some patients a diagnostic mammogram may be appropriate. It is most often used for patients with current areas of breast concerns:
- Lump(s) in the breast or underarm
- Thickening or dimpling of the breast
- Discharge from the nipple
- Recent changes in breast tissue or skin
Mammography is considered the “gold standard” in breast cancer detection because of its distinctive ability to identify two to three times as many early breast cancers as a physical exam. Some cancers, however, may not be detected until they can be felt as lumps. That is why breast self-exams and routine exams by your healthcare provider are essential steps in monitoring your breast health.
3D digital mammography
Asante Imaging offers 3D digital mammography service for screening and diagnostic procedures. 3D Digital mammography systems lower the radiation dose to the patient significantly during a mammogram. The digital systems also incorporate CAD (Computer Aided Detection) which assists the radiologist in identifying areas of concern by highlighting them on the computer screen.
3D Digital mammography provides images that are instantly available for viewing by the technologist and the radiologist. Because the images are available to the technologist in the exam room, the patient no longer has to wait while films are developed and approved, making the patient’s time in the mammography area much shorter.
What can I expect at my mammogram?
You will have a female technologist, and the exam will take about 20 minutes. During the procedure your breasts will be compressed to obtain a clear picture and to reduce the amount of radiation used. You may feel some discomfort, but it lasts only a few seconds. A qualified radiologist will interpret the films, and the results will be sent to your healthcare provider.
Your skin should be clean and free of residue from deodorants, perfumes, powders, ointments, or creams, as these can affect the quality of the mammogram.
Is a mammogram safe?
Advancements in technology have improved the quality of mammography systems so that it is possible to acquire an image with very little radiation. This exam uses less radiation than a chest X-ray.
How do I obtain a mammogram?
Please call to schedule an appointment.
Our scheduling lines are open for your convenience, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.,
- Asante Ashland Community Hospital Women’s Imaging (541) 789-4322
- Asante Women’s Imaging, Grants Pass (541) 507-2650
- Asante Imaging, Medford (541) 789-4322
Preparing for a mammogram
- Bring any past records or films from previous mammograms.
- For your comfort, wear a two-piece outfit—a top and a skirt or pants because you will need to undress above the waist.
- Schedule your exam for approximately one week after your menstrual cycle, when you have the least amount of breast tenderness.
- Please inform the scheduler and the technologist if you have breast implants.
- If dietary factors such as caffeine tend to cause breast tenderness, limit your intake before the exam.
