Breast Imaging

Mammography, Ultrasound and MRI

Mammography is specialised medical imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system to see inside the breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, aids in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.

During mammography, a specially qualified Radiographer will position your breast in the mammography unit. Your breast will be placed on a special platform and compressed with a clear plastic paddle. The Radiographer will gradually compress your breast.

You will be asked to change positions between images. The routine views are a top-to-bottom view and an angled side view. The process will be repeated for the other breast.

Breast Ultrasound may be used alone in younger women or in conjunction with mammography in older women to assist diagnosis. Ultrasound does not used x-rays instead the images are formed by a small hand-held sensor, which is pressed carefully against the skin surface, generates sound waves and detects any echoes reflected back off the surfaces and tissue boundaries of internal organs.

Breast MRI

Breast MRI is a highly specialised examination of the breast, which may be used for breast evaluation. It does not use x-rays like mammogram instead it uses a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency waves.

Breast MRI is used for women known to be at a higher risk of developing breast cancer because of family history. It may also be used in the assessment of women with breast implants.

If biopsy is needed a needle may be inserted under X-Ray (mammography) or Ultrasound may be used.