Breast Imaging

Breast imaging plays a pivotal role in early breast cancer detection, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment. Regular mammograms are key to identifying breast cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages, often before any physical symptoms are noticeable.

Screening Mammography

This preventative measure is aimed at detecting early signs of breast cancer in women who show no symptoms and have no known breast concerns. The frequency of screening mammograms is determined by factors such as age and risk level.

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Mammography is a vital screening and diagnostic tool in the fight against breast cancer, offering the potential to save lives by identifying the disease at its earliest, most treatable stages. Through the use of low-dose X-rays, mammography provides detailed images of the breast tissue, enabling the detection of abnormalities or changes that might not yet be palpable.

Radiology Associates is proud to offer Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT), also known as 3D mammography. This cutting-edge technique, used alongside traditional 2D mammography, enhances our ability to detect and diagnose breast cancer by offering a three-dimensional view of the breast. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with dense breast tissue, where conventional mammography may face limitations.

Early detection is key to successful breast cancer treatment. Mammography can reveal tumors and tissue changes before they can be detected through physical examination, opening up a broader range of treatment options that are often less invasive and more effective.

Radiology Associates follows the Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) guidelines, recommending regular mammograms for women aged 40 to 74. Those with higher risk factors may need to start screenings earlier or undergo them more frequently.

Expect a quick and respectful process. You’ll change into a gown, and a technologist will assist you in positioning your breast between two plates for imaging, with each compression lasting just 3-5 seconds thanks to our state-of-the-art equipment. While some discomfort may occur, it is minimal and temporary.

A radiologist reviews your mammogram images and sends a detailed report to your healthcare provider. If additional views or an ultrasound is needed, it’s a routine part of ensuring the most accurate assessment, not a cause for immediate concern. In Canada, fewer than 10% of those called back for further imaging are diagnosed with breast cancer.

At Radiology Associates, our priority is your health and peace of mind. We’re dedicated to providing the highest standard of mammographic imaging, ensuring that you receive the most effective screening and diagnostic care possible.

For more details on breast health and mammography guidelines in Canada, visit: Canadian Cancer Society

Diagnostic Mammography

When there’s a specific concern, such as a noticeable change in breast tissue or an abnormality found during a previous screening, diagnostic mammography comes into play. It provides a detailed examination of the area of concern, either identified by a patient or a healthcare provider.

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Mammography is a critical component in the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer, capable of saving lives by identifying the disease in its most treatable stages. This specialized form of medical imaging utilizes low-dose X-rays to capture images of the breast, revealing abnormalities or changes in tissue that might not yet be detectable through physical examination.

The ability to detect breast cancer early is a key advantage of mammography, significantly enhancing treatment efficacy and improving survival rates. Regular screenings can uncover small tumors and subtle changes in breast tissue, offering patients a broader range of less invasive treatment options and a better chance at a positive outcome.

Diagnostic mammography is tailored for individuals with specific breast concerns or abnormalities, such as a palpable lump, unusual breast symptoms (like nipple discharge or skin changes), or anomalies found during screening mammography. This type of mammogram provides a more detailed examination, including additional angles and magnified views, to thoroughly assess the area of concern.

– Detection of a palpable lump
– New breast symptoms (e.g., nipple discharge, changes in breast shape or size)
– Evaluation of breast implants
– Follow-up on screening mammogram findings

During your appointment, you’ll be asked to change into a gown for the exam. A technologist will assist you in positioning your breast between two plates for imaging, ensuring the process is as comfortable as possible. The exam involves compressing the breast to obtain clear images, with each compression lasting just a few moments.

While mammography uses low-dose radiation, it is considered a safe procedure prescribed with your health in mind. Compression may cause temporary discomfort, especially if you’re premenopausal and experiencing breast tenderness. Scheduling your mammogram 7-10 days post-period can minimize discomfort.

A radiologist will review your mammogram images and compile a report for your healthcare provider. The report will include any findings and recommendations based on current guidelines. It’s not uncommon to be called back for additional imaging, but this is a standard step to ensure the most accurate and comprehensive evaluation.

At Radiology Associates, your health and peace of mind are our top priorities. We’re committed to providing thorough, compassionate care through every step of your diagnostic journey.

Why is Screening Important?

Despite popular belief, 75% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.

Among women who succumb to breast cancer, 75% were not undergoing regular screenings.

Accessibility

In Alberta, women aged 45 to 74 can self-refer for a screening mammogram without needing a referral or requisition, simplifying access to early detection services. Contact our office for more information.

Comprehensive Breast Health Services

At Radiology Associates, our breast health program extends beyond mammography. We offer a suite of advanced services to ensure comprehensive care and diagnosis.

Diagnostic Breast Ultrasound

Diagnostic breast ultrasound is a targeted imaging technique used to examine breast tissue closely, especially when addressing a specific concern, symptom, or following up on another screening test, like a mammogram. Utilizing a transducer and ultrasound gel, this method provides detailed images of the internal structures of the breast without using radiation, making it a safe and painless procedure.

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Diagnostic Breast Ultrasound is highly effective for individuals with dense breast tissue, where mammograms might not clearly reveal abnormalities. It excels at distinguishing between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts, with the latter being a common, non-cancerous condition often detected as lumps.

Though invaluable for detailed analysis, it’s crucial to recognize that ultrasound serves as a supplement, not a substitute, to mammography. Mammography is the cornerstone of breast cancer screening, with ultrasound providing additional clarity in certain scenarios.

For the exam, you’ll be asked to change into a gown. Comfortably positioned on the ultrasound bed, possibly with a pillow for support, a technologist will apply a small amount of gel to your breast. The transducer then emits high-frequency sound waves to capture images of your breast and potentially the armpit area if needed.

This non-invasive, radiation-free exam typically lasts between 15 to 30 minutes for each breast. A radiologist will later review the captured images.

The radiologist will analyze the ultrasound images and prepare a detailed report for your healthcare provider. This report will include any noteworthy findings and subsequent recommendations, adhering to the latest healthcare guidelines. Rest assured, Radiology Associates is dedicated to providing thorough, compassionate care, ensuring you receive the most accurate and comprehensive diagnostic information.

Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound (ABUS)

Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound is an advanced screening tool used alongside mammography to enhance breast cancer detection. This technology employs sound waves to create detailed, comprehensive images of the breast without the use of radiation. It’s particularly effective for examining dense breast tissue, where traditional mammograms alone might not provide clear results.

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The Role of ABUS in Breast Health

For women with dense breast tissue, ABUS is invaluable. Dense tissue can obscure potential abnormalities in mammogram images, making cancer harder to detect. ABUS supplements mammography by offering additional, detailed insights, thus improving the chances of early breast cancer detection.

It’s crucial to understand that ABUS does not replace mammography but complements it, forming a more complete diagnostic picture. Discussing individual risk factors and screening options with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if ABUS is a suitable option.

ABUS is recommended for individuals identified with dense breast tissue through mammography. Since breast density is not visually apparent but determined through imaging, ABUS serves as an essential adjunct in these cases, enhancing mammography’s effectiveness by providing a clearer, more detailed view.

Upon arrival, you’ll be provided with a gown for the exam. The procedure involves lying down on an exam table, where a technologist will position you comfortably, often with the aid of a pillow. The ABUS machine uses a transducer to send out high-frequency sound waves, capturing images from various angles. These images are then compiled into a three-dimensional representation of the breast.

The ABUS scan is a non-invasive, pain-free process that lasts about 15 to 30 minutes. There’s no radiation exposure, making it a safe option for additional breast screening.

A radiologist will analyze the ABUS images and prepare a comprehensive report for your healthcare provider. This report will include any significant findings and recommendations based on current healthcare guidelines. Should there be any notable results, your provider will discuss the next steps or further imaging if necessary.

At Radiology Associates, we’re committed to offering the most advanced diagnostic technologies like ABUS to ensure our patients receive the highest quality care and accurate screening results.

Breast MRI (coming soon)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) employs magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of the body. In the context of breast cancer screening, MRI is utilized to obtain comprehensive images of the breast tissue both before and after the administration of a contrast agent via IV. This contrast solution enhances the visibility of any abnormal tissue within the breast.

Breast MRI has significantly advanced in the last decade, transitioning from primarily evaluating breast implants to becoming crucial in breast cancer detection and screening high-risk individuals. It is now the most sensitive tool for identifying breast cancer, serving various purposes, including problem-solving, screening, and staging for patients with breast cancer. This guide outlines its current applications and essential requirements for clinical use.

Uses and When It’s Recommended:

Identifying the cancer source when other scans don’t show it, or in cases of suspicious nipple discharge.

When mammograms or ultrasounds are unclear but shouldn’t replace biopsies.

Especially for those with a lifetime risk of breast cancer over 20-25%, including genetic predisposition and certain syndromes.

Assessing how well chemotherapy is working.

Checking for remaining cancer or the full extent of it before surgery.

Evaluating disease spread within the same or opposite breast, despite the debate on its impact on long-term outcomes.

Checking for implant ruptures or complications.

Notably, the most common reason for a breast MRI is having a lifetime breast cancer risk above 20%. You can use this online risk calculator to help determine this risk, and individuals with such findings should discuss the potential need for breast MRI alongside mammography with their healthcare provider.

COMING SOON

Breast Biopsy

A breast biopsy is a diagnostic procedure aimed at examining a small tissue sample from a breast nodule. Performed with precision under imaging guidance, this procedure allows for the accurate extraction of samples. These samples are then analyzed in a laboratory to determine their nature.

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A breast biopsy is a diagnostic procedure aimed at examining a small tissue or fluid sample from a breast nodule. Performed with precision under imaging guidance, this procedure allows for the accurate extraction of samples. These samples are then analyzed in a laboratory to determine their nature.

This procedure is essential for diagnosing various breast conditions, including lumps or unusual findings identified during mammograms or ultrasound examinations. By extracting and examining tissue, medical professionals can determine whether abnormalities are benign or malignant, guiding subsequent treatment decisions.

1. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA)

Utilizes a thin needle to withdraw fluid or cells from a breast lump or cyst.

2. Core needle biopsy

Employs a needle to remove a core sample of breast tissue for comprehensive analysis.

Breast biopsies are conducted under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort, often using ultrasound or mammography for precise sample collection.

What to Expect from the Procedure

  • Disclose any bleeding disorders or previous reactions to anesthesia.
  • Continue taking prescribed medications unless advised otherwise.
  • There’s no need to fast; maintain your regular diet.
  • Wear comfortable, two-piece clothing.
  • Arrange for transportation home post-procedure.
  • You’ll lie on your back on an examination table.
  • After applying gel to the breast, the practitioner uses ultrasound for guidance.
  • Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
  • The biopsy needle collects the necessary samples, guided by real-time imaging for precision.

This procedure is straightforward and generally well-tolerated, with a minimal risk of complications.

  • Expect to have a bandage applied to the biopsy site.
  • Follow care instructions for the biopsy site, avoiding strenuous activities for a week.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers can manage any discomfort.
  • Bruising and swelling are normal and should subside within a few days.

The analyzed tissue samples will inform your healthcare provider’s next steps, which they will discuss with you. If cancerous cells are detected, additional tests and treatment options will be considered.

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