Cancer Services
Mammography

Mammography is a technique used to detect breast cancer. It involves taking an x-ray of the breast from, generally, two directions. The breasts are slightly compressed between two plates in order to separate the tissues for a more detailed image. At St. Rita's, we offer two types of mammography at the Women's Wellness Center:

  • Analog
  • Digital

Analog
Analog mammography involves using standard mammography equipment and places the images onto x-ray film. This film will then need to be developed in the darkroom.

Digital
Digital Mammography Digital mammography is very similar to analog mammography; however, there is no film to develop. The image is captured immediately and sent to a computer, then displayed on a monitor. Therefore, the process is much quicker. Although the quality of analog mammograms are about the same as digital mammograms, there are certain exams that are visualized better using digital technology, such as breasts with implants, very dense-fibrocystic breasts and post-radiated breast tissue.

Preparation
To prepare for a mammogram, it is necessary to remove any deodorant or powder from the underarm or breast area. Many of these products contain metal particles that can show up on the mammogram.

All mammograms are performed by specially trained female technologists, licensed and certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. These technologists will perform a correlative physical breast examination to make sure there are no palpable abnormalities.

Results
After your test is completed, your films will be read by a board certified radiologist and analyzed by Computer-Aided Detection (CAD). This technology serves as a second set of eyes for the radiologist and marks any suspicious areas on the mammogram for the radiologist to review again. Research shows that up to 24% more breast cancers are detected using CAD technology. You should receive a letter regarding your results in 2-10 days following your exam. If the radiologist recommends additional testing, one of our nurse care coordinators will call you to schedule an additional appointment for you.

Mammography

For More Information (419) 226-4500

Scheduling:
(419) 226-9056

Map & Directions Map & Directions

 

Mammography:
Mammography is a test that works to find early cancers that are too small to be found during a breast self-exam. A mammogram may also be done to check a lump that was found during a breast self-exam or a checkup.

 

Fact:
Mammography is still recognized as the gold standard for early detection of breast cancer.

 

Fact:
The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 and over have a mammogram every year.