Mammography In the area of mammography, X-Ray Medical Group provides expertise and a dedication to patient comfort at our Grossmont Imaging and Breast Center in La Mesa CA. Our facility is accredited, fully digital, and performs 22,000 mammograms annually. What is Mammography?
Mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used as a screening tool to detect early breast cancer in women experiencing no symptoms and to detect and diagnose breast disease in women experiencing symptoms such as a lump, pain or nipple discharge. X-Ray Medical Group uses a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system for the examination of breasts.

What are the advantages of a digital facility?

Digital mammography has been proven to aid in the detection of breast cancer in women younger than 50 or in patients with dense breast tissue. The exam is performed in the usual way and compression is still needed. However, images are stored on a computer and reviewed on state of the art computer monitors. All images are also reviewed by CAD, or computer aided detection.

How do I prepare for my Mammogram?

Before scheduling a mammogram, the American Cancer Society (ACS) and other specialty organizations recommend that you discuss any new findings or problems in your breasts with your primary care doctor. In addition, inform your doctor of any prior surgeries, hormone use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.

Do not schedule your mammogram for the week before your period if your breasts are usually tender during this time. The best time for a mammogram is one week following your period. Always inform your doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.

The X-Ray Medical Group also recommends you:

• Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam. These can appear on the mammogram as calcium spots.
• Describe any breast symptoms or problems to the technologist performing the exam.
• If possible, obtain prior mammograms and make them available for our Radiologist at the time of the current exam.
• Ask when your results will be available; do not assume the results are normal if you do not hear from your doctor or the mammography facility.

In addition, before the examination you will be asked to remove all jewelry and clothing above the waist and you will be given a gown or loose-fitting material that opens in the front.