Mammograms: How Does a Mammogram Work?

Introduction

A mammogram is an X-ray imaging test used to examine the breasts for signs of breast cancer. It is one of the most important tools available for early detection of breast cancer and can potentially save lives. In this article, we’ll explore how does a mammogram work, from the basics of the procedure to the latest advances in mammography technology. We’ll also look at the benefits and risks of mammograms and how they help detect breast cancer.

Exploring the Basics of Mammograms: How Does a Mammogram Work?

Before we dive into the details of how a mammogram works, let’s take a look at the basics of what a mammogram is and how it works.

What is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is an X-ray imaging test that uses low doses of radiation to create images of the breasts. It is used to examine the breasts for signs of breast cancer, and it is one of the most important tools available for early detection of breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, if detected early, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer is 99 percent.¹

How a Mammogram Works

During a mammogram, each breast is compressed between two plates on a mammography machine. This compression helps spread out the breast tissue to make it easier for the radiologist to see any abnormal areas or tumors. The machine then takes two X-ray images of each breast, one from the side and one from the top down. These images are then viewed on a computer screen by a radiologist, who looks for any abnormalities or signs of cancer. If any are found, further testing may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Mammography: What Happens During a Mammogram?

Now that you have a better understanding of how a mammogram works, let’s take a look at what happens during a mammogram.

Preparation for Your Mammogram

Before your mammogram, you should remove all jewelry and clothing from the waist up. You will be given a gown to wear during the procedure. It is important to inform the radiologist of any changes to your breasts, such as lumps, swelling, or pain, prior to your mammogram. You should also tell the radiologist if you have recently had any breast surgeries or biopsies.

The Procedure Step-by-Step

Once you are ready, the radiologist will position each breast between two plates on the mammography machine. The plates will compress your breast to spread out the tissue and make it easier to view on the X-ray images. The radiologist will then take two X-ray images of each breast, one from the side and one from the top down. Once the images are taken, they will be reviewed by the radiologist and any abnormalities or signs of cancer will be noted.

What to Expect When You Go for a Mammogram: An Overview of the Procedure

Now that we’ve looked at the basics of how a mammogram works and what happens during a mammogram, let’s take a closer look at what to expect when you go for a mammogram.

Before the Mammogram

Before your mammogram, you should remove all jewelry and clothing from the waist up. You will be given a gown to wear during the procedure. It is important to inform the radiologist of any changes to your breasts, such as lumps, swelling, or pain, prior to your mammogram. You should also tell the radiologist if you have recently had any breast surgeries or biopsies.

During the Mammogram

Once you are ready, the radiologist will position each breast between two plates on the mammography machine. The plates will compress your breast to spread out the tissue and make it easier to view on the X-ray images. The radiologist will then take two X-ray images of each breast, one from the side and one from the top down. Once the images are taken, they will be reviewed by the radiologist and any abnormalities or signs of cancer will be noted.

After the Mammogram

Once the mammogram is complete, the radiologist will review the images and determine if there are any abnormalities. If any are found, further testing may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis. You should receive the results of your mammogram within one to two weeks.

Understanding How Mammograms Help Detect Breast Cancer

Now that we’ve explored the basics of how a mammogram works and what to expect when you go for a mammogram, let’s take a look at how mammograms help detect breast cancer.

How Mammograms Aid in Early Detection

Mammograms are invaluable tools in the early detection of breast cancer. They can detect tumors that are too small to be felt during a physical exam. According to the National Cancer Institute, mammograms can detect up to 95 percent of all breast cancers.² Early detection of cancer can lead to earlier treatment and better outcomes for patients.

Additional Diagnostic Tests for Breast Cancer

In addition to mammograms, other tests may be used to diagnose breast cancer. These include ultrasound, MRI, and biopsy. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image of the inside of the breast, while MRI uses magnetic fields to create detailed images of the breast. A biopsy involves removing a sample of tissue from the breast to be examined under a microscope.

The Benefits and Risks of Mammograms: A Look at the Pros and Cons

Now that we’ve discussed how mammograms help detect breast cancer, let’s take a look at the benefits and risks of mammograms.

Benefits of Mammograms

The primary benefit of mammograms is the potential to detect breast cancer in its early stages. Early detection of cancer can lead to earlier treatment and better outcomes for patients. In addition, mammograms can provide peace of mind for women who are concerned about their risk of developing breast cancer.

Potential Risks of Mammograms

Although mammograms are generally safe, there are some potential risks associated with the procedure. These include discomfort due to the pressure of the plates on the breasts, and a small amount of radiation exposure. In addition, false positives and false negatives are possible, which can lead to unnecessary follow-up tests.

The Latest Advances in Mammography Technology: How Are Mammograms Improving?

Mammography technology has come a long way in recent years, with new technologies being developed to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of mammograms. Let’s take a look at some of these advances.

Digital Mammography

Digital mammography is a newer technology that uses digital images instead of film for mammograms. Digital mammograms allow for more accurate and detailed images than traditional film-based mammograms. They also require less radiation exposure and can be stored electronically, making them easier to share with other healthcare providers.

3D Mammography

Also known as tomosynthesis, 3D mammography is a newer type of mammogram that takes multiple images of the breast from different angles. This allows for a more detailed view of the breast tissue, and can help detect smaller tumors that may not be visible on a traditional mammogram.

Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound

Automated whole breast ultrasound (ABUS) is a newer type of ultrasound imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the entire breast. Unlike traditional ultrasounds, which are used to examine specific areas of the breast, ABUS is used to scan the entire breast. This can help detect tumors that may not be visible on a mammogram.

Conclusion

Mammograms are invaluable tools in the early detection of breast cancer. In this article, we’ve explored how does a mammogram work, from the basics of the procedure to the latest advances in mammography technology. We’ve also looked at the benefits and risks of mammograms and how they help detect breast cancer. With the help of mammography technology, we can continue to make strides in the fight against breast cancer.