Mammography
Mammography uses a small amount of radiation and is performed by Specialist Radiographers. Breast Radiologists are in attendance to view the images immediately and request any further images at the time, preventing a recall and avoiding further stress.
The breast is placed between two plates and compressed. While the image is obtained, a number of views are taken and viewed immediately. It can be uncomfortable, but most patients are able to tolerate this procedure.
All mammography is double reported by Specialist Breast Radiologists and the results are usually available within 24 hours.
Patients can self-refer for mammography under certain criteria; if they are over the age of 40, asymptomatic and have not had a mammogram in the last year. The results will be sent to the patient’s GP.
Many women choose to attend the bi-annual National Breast Screening service available to women over the age of 50 and supplement this with a self-referral mammogram on the alternate years.
