Digital Mammography

Screening Mammogram
A screening mammogram is a routine exam, typically performed yearly. The mammogram is performed and viewed for technical quality by the technologist. The images are then interpreted by the radiologist.

Diagnostic Mammogram
A diagnostic mammogram is performed when a patient presents with an abnormality, for example a new breast lump, new focal pain, discharge, or other issue. The mammogram is performed and interpreted the same day as the exam. Additional mammogram views and/or ultrasound may be performed.

How Do I Prepare for a Mammogram?
Once you have scheduled your mammogram, the Women’s Center recommends you follow these guidelines to prepare for your procedure:

• If a previous mammogram was done at a facility other than The Washington Hospital Women’s Center, request those images be sent to the Women’s Center to avoid any delay in interpretation
  
  
• Refrain from wearing perfume, talcum powder, or deodorant the day of your mammogram, as these products can interfere with the quality of the imaging
  
  
• Bring your mammography prescription from your doctor to your mammogram appointment, as well as your health insurance card and photo ID
  
  
• Upon arrival, report to the Women’s Center on the fourth floor. You should plan to remain in the Mammography Department for approximately one to one and a half hours for a diagnostic mammography appointment

What Will Happen During the Mammogram?

• Your breast will be positioned in the mammography unit and placed on a platform for compression
  
  
• Your breast will be gradually compressed so that all breast tissue can be seen and examined, and small abnormalities are not obscured
  
  
• It is important to remain still and hold your breath during the mammogram, so that the image is not blurred
  
  
• The compression of your breast may be uncomfortable, especially for women who have very sensitive breasts, but compression aids in diagnosis
  
  
• Allow one to 1 ½ hour for your diagnostic mammogram appointment

 

Receiving Your Test Results After the Mammogram

The Women’s Center staff of fellowship trained and board-certified radiologists will review and interpret your mammography images. Once your mammogram is completed, you may resume your normal activities unless otherwise directed by your physician. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Women’s Center at (724) 223-3313.

As soon as your mammogram is reviewed by the radiologist, you and your physician will be notified by letter of the results of your exam. If the radiologist has identified an area of concern, the Women’s Center Mammography Department will contact you directly and ask that you return for additional testing, if needed.

 

Scheduling a Mammogram
To schedule a mammogram, contact the Washington Hospital Women’s Center at (724) 223-3313. The Women’s Center offers imaging services at its Mammography Center at 95 Leonard Avenue, Washington, PA, and 2001 Waterdam Plaza, McMurray, PA.