Mammography and Digital Mammography

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast. Mammography allows doctors to examine breast tissue for signs of cancer.

How is a mammogram performed?

During the test, a patient stands in front of a special X-ray machine. A technician positions the patient's breast on a clear plastic plate. Another plate firmly presses against the breast from above and holds it still while the X-ray is taken. The process is performed first on one breast, then the other.

What is digital mammography and why is it better?

Digital mammography produces a clearer X-ray picture of the breast tissue than traditional film mammography. Digital mammography allows the radiologist to analyze images more precisely, so that abnormalities can be easily seen and accurately identified. This is an especially important tool for screening and diagnosis of breast cancer in women under the age of 50, women who have not yet gone through menopause or who are currently in menopause, and women with dense breast tissue.

Digital mammography also reduces the dose of radiation delivered during the scan and produces better images than traditional methods of mammography, and the patient experience is similar to traditional mammography.

Parkridge Health is committed to providing easily accessible mammography services in a safe, comfortable environment.

A knowledgeable breast patient navigator is available for patients who require follow-up care.