PRE AND POST MAMMOGRAPHY INSTRUCTIONS

Pre-Mammography instructions:
On the day of your exam, please do not use deodorant of powder. Tiny flecks of these substances may appear on the mammography film and interfere with the interpretation.

If you have breast implants, be sure to notify the Radiology Department prior to your appointment. We allow a longer appointment time for imaging breast implants.

Importance of compression:
Compression is the key to good mammography. The following explains the value of compression:

• Reduces radiation dosage
• Provides several technical improvements in image quality.
  • Immobilization of the breast reduces blurring caused by motion.
  • Localization of structures in the breast are brought closer to the image receptor, which reduces geometric blurring
  • The breast tissue is more uniform, which results in more even penetration and less difference in radiographic density
  • Reduction of the breast thickness, which reduces the ratio of scatter to primary radiation, thereby better subject contrast
  • The spreading of breast tissue enables suspicious areas to be more easily identified.
  
  Post-Mammography Instructions:
  We regret any discomfort you may have experienced from compression during your mammogram. Do not be alarmed if, as a result of compression, there is some temporary skin discoloration involving one or both breasts. Occasionally there will be a mild aching as a result of compression. If the aching persists, you may contact your physician.
  
  Compression allows clearer pictures of you breasts. It is important for you to understand that: 1) Compression is not dangerous – it does not damage breast tissue and 2) it produces no long-term discomfort. With compression we obtain the best possible view of your breast with the least amount of radiation.
  
  Scheduling:
  Please report to the Admitting Office 15 minutes prior to your appointment.
  Should you have any questions about your appointment, call the Radiology Department at 802-257-8895.
  
  *Remember, it is important for you to do breast self-examinations on a continuing basis and see your doctor whenever he/she recommends.*

For more information on the Department of Radiology at BMH click here.