Name of the Procedure:

Screening, Diagnostic, Film, Digital or Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (3D) Mammography Results Documented and Reviewed (HCPCS Code: G9899).

Summary

A mammogram is an X-ray exam of the breast used to screen for or diagnose breast cancer. It can be done using traditional film, digital technology, or three-dimensional (3D) imaging known as breast tomosynthesis.

Purpose

The main purpose of a mammogram is to detect early signs of breast cancer, often before a patient experiences any symptoms. This early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and can save lives.

Indications

• Routine screening for breast cancer in women, typically over the age of 40.
• Investigate lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or changes in breast size or shape.
• Follow-up on abnormal findings from a physical exam or previous mammogram.

Preparation

• Avoid using deodorants, perfumes, or lotions under the arms or on the breast area, as these can interfere with the imaging.
• Wear a two-piece outfit so you only need to undress from the waist up.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Bring previous mammogram images for comparison, if available.

Procedure Description

1. Check-In: The patient checks in and is taken to a private room.
2. Undress from Waist Up: The patient removes clothing from the waist up and wears a provided gown.
3. Positioning: A technologist positions the patient's breast on the mammogram machine. The breast is compressed between two plates to spread the tissue for clearer images.
4. Imaging: X-ray images are taken from different angles. For 3D mammography, multiple images are captured to create a 3D picture of the breast.
5. Review: A radiologist reviews the images for any signs of abnormality.

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes about 20-30 minutes, with the actual imaging taking only about 5 minutes.

Setting

Mammograms are performed in hospitals, outpatient radiology clinics, or specialized breast imaging centers.

Personnel

• Radiologic Technologist: Operates the mammogram machine and positions the patient.
• Radiologist: Specialist who analyzes the mammogram images and provides a diagnostic report.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Mild discomfort or pain from breast compression, exposure to low-dose radiation.
• Rare Risks: Anxiety from abnormal results, need for additional testing, false positives or negatives.

Benefits

• Early Detection: Identifies breast cancer at an early stage when treatment is most effective.
• Screening and Diagnosis: Helps differentiate between benign and malignant conditions.
• Quick Results: Most facilities provide results within a few days, accelerating timely medical actions.

Recovery

• Immediate Recovery: No recovery time needed; you can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-Up Care: Follow-up appointments if abnormalities are detected for further testing or treatment.

Alternatives

• Breast Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the breast; often used as a follow-up to a mammogram.
• MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging for more detailed images; used for high-risk patients.
• Clinical Breast Exam: Physical examination by a healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: You may feel discomfort from the pressure applied to your breasts, but it lasts only a few seconds for each image.
• After the Procedure: Most women experience mild or no pain after the mammogram. Any discomfort usually subsides quickly.

Pain management is typically not necessary, but over-the-counter pain relief can be used if needed for any lingering discomfort.