Digital Mammography

Digital Mammography is an x-ray that checks for breast cancer in women. The images that it produces are called mammograms. These images may show small tumors that cannot be felt. Mammograms may also show other irregularities in the breast.

What are the main types of mammograms?

⦁ Screening mammogram.
This test looks for breast cancer in women with no symptoms. The goal is to catch the disease early, when it may be more treatable.

⦁ Diagnostic mammogram.
You may receive this test to answer a specific question or learn more about a specific symptom. It may be recommended for the following reasons:
⦁ A screening mammogram shows a suspicious area
⦁ You feel a lump in the breast
⦁ You have other unusual symptoms

A diagnostic mammogram usually takes more pictures of the breast than a screening mammogram.

Who does my mammogram?

This test is performed by a mammogram technologist known as a mammographer. A mammographer is specially trained to take x-ray images of the breasts.
A doctor who specializes in reading medical imaging tests reviews the mammogram. This type of doctor is called a radiologist.

How should I prepare for a mammogram?

Topics to discuss with your health care team. Discuss any breast symptoms you are experiencing. Mention if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. In both cases, your doctor will probably recommend postponing this test.

Scheduling and other time-related preparations. Consider scheduling the test within the 2 weeks after your menstrual period ends. Women’s breasts are least tender during this time.

Other factors that may reduce breast sensitivity:
⦁ Avoiding caffeine for a week before the test
⦁ Taking an over-the-counter pain medication on the test day

Physical preparation before the mammogram, do not use these products:
⦁ Deodorant
⦁ Antiperspirant
⦁ Powder
⦁ Lotion
⦁ Perfume

They leave residue on the skin that could create spots on the x-ray.
Take off jewelleries that will interfere with the x-ray. You will be asked to remove your clothes above the waist and wear a hospital gown that opens in the front.

Communication. Tell the technologist if you have:
⦁ Breast implants
⦁ Previous breast surgery (You may be asked to point out any scars.)
⦁ Any area of concern in your breast

This helps the technologist better perform the mammogram. And it helps the radiologist read your mammogram more accurately.

If you had previous breast surgery, the technologist may tape small markers to your skin at the scar site. This will show the radiologist where you have the highest risk of recurrence.

If you have had a mammogram before, bring copies of the images to share with the radiologist.

What will happen during the test?

The actual mammogram takes 10 to 15 minutes. But the whole process takes up to an hour.
This includes changing clothes, having the examination, and making sure the images are clear.
The technologist may ask you to relax and take a deep breath as the procedure begins.

You will stand in front of the mammography machine. Then, the technologist will:
⦁ Place 1 of your breasts between 2 plates
⦁ Press the plates together to flatten your breast
⦁ Take an x-ray, which lasts a few seconds
Flattening your breast spreads out the tissue. This makes it easier to find small abnormalities. It also prevents motion that would blur the image.
For a screening mammogram, the technologist will take images of each breast. More images may be taken for a diagnostic mammogram. You may change positions slightly for each image. Then, the technologist makes sure the pictures are clear and readable.
After review, the technologist may need to take more images.

What happens after the test

You can return to your usual activities right after your mammogram. You will receive the results within 24 hours.

Mammography In Mauritius

Most breast imaging centres have switched from using film screens to digital mammography. The digital images are clearer and easier to read. Aegle Cancer Hospital uses Digital Mammography Machine for precise diagnosis.

Digital mammograms record the images on a computer, rather than on film. Digital records are easier to store and share with other health care professionals. The image contrast is also sharper, which can make it easier to find small changes. 

At Aegle Cancer Hospital, our core mission is to eliminate cancer. The surgeons, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists are focused exclusively on curing breast cancer, extending the life of breast cancer patients and maximising their quality of life.