H Digital mammography is a radiological method of breast imaging performed on a mammography machine and is currently the most important preventive screening test for breast cancer detection. It provides high clarity and excellent imaging for greater diagnostic accuracy, while radiation exposure is up to 50% lower than with conventional or analog mammography. Digital mammography can detect tumors measuring just a few millimeters, which would not be detectable by palpation, thus increasing the chances of successful treatment of the disease.
The importance of mammography in the prevention of breast cancer is paramount. The first essential preventive examination for the breast is self-examination, which should begin at a young age. After all, the possibility of sporadic cancers, even without a family history, is possible even in much younger women. Mammograms should become part of a woman’s life from the age of 35-40, provided there is no family history that would dictate starting screening much earlier, along with clinical examination. From the age of 40 onwards, mammograms should be performed annually and sometimes more frequently, a decision that will be made by the doctor, depending on the findings and the condition of the breast. There is no age limit for the examination, as the risk of breast cancer remains present in older women. In addition to mammography, a supplementary breast ultrasound and possibly a breast MRI may be required.
Procedure
The examination is performed by a specialized technologist. During the examination, the breast is placed on a special platform where it will be gradually compressed, which is necessary in order to image the entire breast and highlight its internal tissues. The compression may cause discomfort, but taking a common painkiller 1 hour before the examination by women who report severe discomfort or intolerance to previous mammograms has been shown to reduce sensitivity and thus ensure the calmness and cooperation of the patient. The total examination time is approximately 20 minutes.
Before the mammogram
It is recommended that you bring previous mammograms with the relevant findings. In addition, please inform us of any findings you have noticed in your breasts or any medication you are taking.
The Euromedica Zoodochos Pigi Clinic has a modern digital mammography machine installed in its renovated imaging department. For more information and to make an appointment, please contact the clinic’s office at 24610 35001 or via email at info.zpigis@euromedica.gr.