Name of the Procedure:

Screening Mammography, Bilateral (2-View Study of Each Breast)

Summary

A screening mammography is an X-ray technique used to take detailed images of both breasts. It typically involves capturing two views of each breast to check for any abnormal tissues or signs of breast cancer.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a bilateral screening mammography is to detect early signs of breast cancer, often before symptoms develop. The goal is to identify any abnormal growths or changes in breast tissue that could indicate cancer, which may lead to early and more effective treatment.

Indications

• Routine breast cancer screening for women, especially those aged 40 and above.
• Family history of breast cancer.
• Personal history of breast abnormalities.
• Presence of symptoms such as lumps, pain, or changes in breast appearance (though diagnostic mammography may be preferred for symptomatic cases).

Preparation

• Refrain from applying deodorant, lotion, or powder on the day of the exam as they can interfere with the imaging.
• Wear a two-piece outfit to easily remove clothing from the waist up.
• Bring prior mammogram images if done at a different facility.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be asked to stand in front of a special X-ray machine.
2. Each breast will be positioned one at a time on the mammography unit.
3. A clear plastic plate will gently compress the breast to spread out the tissue, which is crucial for obtaining clear images.
4. The X-ray technologist will take two views of each breast: top-to-bottom and side-to-side.
5. The entire procedure typically requires the patient to change positions a few times to ensure comprehensive imaging.
6. Once imaging is complete, the technologist will check the X-rays for clarity before the patient leaves.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Setting

Screening mammography is performed in a radiology department, outpatient clinic, or specialized breast imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologic Technologist: Performs the mammogram.
• Radiologist: Reviews and interprets the mammogram images.

Risks and Complications

• Exposure to a small amount of radiation.
• Discomfort or pain from breast compression.
• False positives/negatives, leading to additional tests or delayed diagnosis.

Benefits

• Early detection of breast cancer, which improves the chances of successful treatment.
• Generally quick and minimally invasive with no recovery time.
• Provides peace of mind for those with normal results.

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Follow-up may be required if any anomalies are detected.

Alternatives

• Breast MRI: More detailed but more expensive and typically used for high-risk patients.
• Breast Ultrasound: Used for further examination of detected abnormalities but not as effective for routine screening.
• Clinical breast exams: Performed by healthcare providers but less detailed than mammography.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel brief discomfort due to the compression of the breast.
• Some women experience mild pain, but it is usually temporary.
• Anxiety about the results is common, but the procedure itself is generally well-tolerated. Pain management and comfort measures, including clear communication by the technologist, can improve the patient experience.