If you’re experiencing swollen lymph nodes after your COVID-19 vaccine, there is no need to delay your mammogram. Here’s what to know about your breast cancer screening appointment if you’ve received or are going to receive your COVID-19 vaccine.
Read MoreA mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast that technologists use to look for abnormalities and changes in breast tissue. Getting an accurate image of the breast makes pinpointing problems much more precise and improves early detection of breast cancer—even before a lump can be felt.
Inspira’s Approach to Mammography
With 3D mammograms, or tomosynthesis, more detailed images of breast tissue can help clearly identify lumps or tumors that may require additional testing. All mammograms done at Inspira Imaging Centers use 3D technology. Inspira InSight is a powerful platform that offers everyone who receives a mammogram at an Inspira Imaging Center the opportunity to participate in a high-risk cancer assessment.
Many women with breast cancer don’t show any symptoms, which is why 3D imaging technology can help save lives through early detection. It’s especially helpful for examining women with dense breast tissue and those at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
What to Expect When You Have a Mammogram
The procedure for receiving a 3D mammogram at Inspira is the same as the conventional 2D mammogram technology.
First, an Inspira technologist will position you in front of the mammography machine, and your breasts will be held in place by two compression plates.
While remaining as still as possible, the machine will capture multiple low-dose X-ray images of your breast. The procedure will then be repeated again on your other breast, capturing one side-by-side view and one top-to-bottom view of each breast. This approach allows the technologist to see the breast tissue clearly in three dimensions, which is especially crucial to identifying breast cancers that may be hidden or obscured by overlapping breast tissue on a standard mammography.
Am I a Candidate for a Mammogram?
The American College of Radiology and Society of Breast Imaging recommend that women start getting annual mammograms at age 40 and continue as long as they are in good health. Women should also have a risk assessment by the age of 30 to see if earlier screening is necessary.
