Breast Health Imaging

• Mammography
• Stereotactic Breast Biopsy (Mammotome)
• Breast Ultrasound
• Ultrasound Guided Biopsy
• Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
• Cyst Aspiration
• Pre-Operative Needle Localization
• Ductograms
  

Mammography
Mammography is the use of X-ray to create a picture of the breast. Long considered the standard for breast cancer screening, mammography is essential for a woman's health. The American Cancer Society guidelines recommend women begin mammograms at age 40 and repeat every year thereafter.

Vacuum-Assisted Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
This is a minimally invasive approach to  analyzing calcifications or masses that can be seen with a mammogram but not by ultrasound. Stereotactic biopsy uses digital imaging to obtain tissue samples. This procedure requires local anesthesia and only low-dose radiation.

Breast Ultrasound
A breast ultrasound is a procedure that uses reflected sound waves to view and produce a picture of the internal structures of the breast. It shows all areas of the breast, including the area closest to the chest wall. Breast ultrasound does not use X-rays. An ultrasound generally does not replace the need for a mammogram; however, it is often used to further evaluate a problem seen on a mammogram.

Ultrasound Guided Biopsy
This is a a minimally invasive approach to analyzing breast nodules and lesions. With this procedure, the radiologist gathers the tissue samples while the ultrasound is being performed. This procedure requires local anesthesia and no radiation and reduces the use of surgery.

Sentinel Node Biopsy
The sentinel node is the first lymph node (gland) to receive lymphatic drainage from a tumor. This procedure identifies the sentinel node and can minimize post-op complications.

Ductograms
A small amount of X-ray contrast is injected into the breast duct and specialized mammogram views are taken to evaluate abnormalities of the duct.

Cyst Aspiration
This is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove fluid from a lump often a cyst, with a needle and a syringe.

Pre-Operative Needle Localization
A procedure that uses very thin needles or guide wires to mark the location of an abnormal area of tissue so it can be surgically removed.  The area in question can be localized using mammography or ultrasound.  Needle localization is used when a surgeon cannot feel the abnormal tissue.