Mammograms and diagnostic services

How mammograms work

Mammography is the process of taking an X-ray picture of the breast. A mammogram is the X-ray image itself. During a mammogram, the breast is gentle pressed between two plates to flatten and spread the tissue. The pressure lasts only for a few seconds. And although this may cause some pain for a moment, it is needed for a good picture. Mammograms can identify abnormalities such as very small lumps, areas of calcification or other changes up to two years before they can be felt by a woman or her physician. Mammograms are safe, exposing the patient to only a minimum amount of radiation. At Goshen Retreat Women's Health Center, we offer screening and diagnostic mammography through breast tomosynthesis.

Digital breast tomosynthesis (tomo), also known as 3D mammography, is a revolutionary new screening and diagnostic breast imaging tool to improve the early detection of breast cancer. During the 3D part of the exam, an x-ray arm sweeps over the breast, taking multiple images in seconds. This advanced type of imaging provides a clearer, more accurate view of the breast.

Breast tomosynthesis can offer better cancer detection, fewer call backs and greater peace of mind. It is our standard protocol for all screening mammograms.

Screening mammogram

A screening mammogram is performed when a woman has no symptoms. Two x-rays are taken of each breast. If a woman has breast implants typically four x-rays are taken of each breast to assess the breast tissue and implant itself.

Screening mammograms can help detect types of breast changes, such as a mass or breast tissue thickening. They are the only test proven to decrease the chances of dying from breast cancer. In fact, the earlier the disease is discovered and treated, the better your chance of survival. For women ages 50 to 69, studies have shown that having regular mammograms could reduce death from breast cancer by one-third.

The American College of Radiology recommends mammograms once a year for women over the age of 40 and women under 40 with a family history of breast cancer.

Diagnostic mammogram

If a screening mammogram detects something suspicious, or a woman has a symptom such as a palpable lump, a diagnostic mammogram is often recommended. With a diagnostic mammogram, the radiologist will be able to evaluate the area of concern through magnification and compression views.

At Goshen Retreat Women's Health Center, every diagnostic mammogram is read by a radiologist right after it is performed. This allows our patients to receive immediate feedback from an on-duty radiologist and helps reduce patient anxiety.

If you have an abnormal diagnostic mammogram or detected lump, an ultrasound exam may also be suggested as a follow-up procedure. Breast MRI can also be used in addition to a mammogram for women who are at a high risk for developing breast cancer.

Working together for you

From learning of something suspicious detected in your screening mammogram to hearing a diagnosis of breast cancer – these are things that every woman fears. At Goshen Retreat Women's Health Center, we understand your concerns. That’s why we provide everything necessary right here to help you make your way through the diagnostic testing, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up care – and beyond.

We believe the key to treating you with the best possible care hinges on the ability to make the most accurate diagnosis and to make it in a timely manner. Working in conjunction with Goshen Center for Cancer Care, our fellowship trained physicians collaborate with one another and integrate their skills and expertise to quickly and clearly define your disease and determine your individual treatment plan. It’s an approach that offers greater hope for healing as we focus not only on treating your cancer but also on treating you as a whole person.

Convenient appointments

We offer convenient appointment times for mammograms, including some early morning hours. Mammogram appointments usually take about 30 minutes.

Financial assistance for screening mammograms is available for income eligible, medically underserved women.

For specific hours or to schedule your mammogram, please call (574) 364-4600.