Digital MammographyWomen First of Louisville is proud to offer the latest advancement in breast cancer screening: Digital Mammography. In 2005 a pivotal publication known as the “DMIST” study indicated that digital mammographic technology could improve early breast cancer detection in women with dense breasts and those screened before menopause. While older technology, known as “film screening” is still widely employed, digital technology makes information sharing more timely and improves communication of important information. Imagine not having to cart around a large X-ray jacket, instead simply handing your doctor a CD-ROM carrying your diagnostic images! Our technicians are extremely proud of our machines, especially the Hologic Lorad Selenia. They often refer to “her” as amazing due to her image quality. Every Selenia image you see is enhanced with intelligent processing - this translates to faster acquisition, fewer total exposures, and less patient discomfort. You get more information per patient image! Mammogram ServicesMammogram services are provided in the Women First offices by our own staff of Radiologic Technologists. We are committed to improving our patients’ ability to obtain regular mammograms, so we offer this service to you at the time of your annual gynecologic exam. Women First has a dedicated staff of radiologic technologists to perform your mammogram and maintain up-to-date certification with the American College of Radiology, in addition to undergoing annual inspections. We have been very successful with improving our patients’ ability to obtain regular mammograms by offering this service at the time of the annual gynecologic exam. Breast images taken in our Imaging Suite are sent to The Women’s Diagnostic Center in Louisville, where they are interpreted by radiologists who specialize in breast diagnostics. Results are usually available in two days and all patients are notified of their results, usually by mail. We recommended annual mammogram screening beginning at age 40. Please call 6-8 weeks before your annual exam so that mammogram services can be coordinated with your exam. >>Back to Patient Services or Gynecological Health Topics Breast Cancer ScreeningBreast cancer is currently the most common cancer in non-smoking women. (While smoking increases the risk of breast cancer, lung cancer is more common in smokers). It is estimated that over a lifetime, one in eight American women will develop breast cancer. Currently mammogram techniques are felt to be the best way to screen most women for evidence of breast cancer. Mammograms are recommended yearly starting at age 40 for most women. Mammograms become more reliable as a woman ages and her breasts become less dense. Self breast exams should begin in the twenties and performed monthly thereafter. The self exam acts as a “safety net” to catch a mass that might not visualize on mammogram. Many health care practitioners feel that prevention and diligence are the keys to “cure” breast cancer. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise has been shown to reduce risk. Regular breast exams by a health care provider, along with a detailed family history can also increase early detection. >>Back to Patient Services or Gynecological Health Topics |
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