MAMMOGRAPHY Breast Screening Imaging & Diagnostic Mammography Services Mammography, or breast imaging, plays a key role in the early detection of breast cancer. The procedure can reveal changes in the breast up to two years before these same changes can be felt by the patient or a physician. Two different types of mammograms (low dose X-ray breast examination) are available: screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms. The screening mammogram is for women who do not have a specific breast symptom and is able to detect any breast changes, such as a lump, earlier than when it could be felt. If a woman does have a specific breast symptom, which can include a lump, inverted nipple, nipple discharge or skin retraction, a diagnostic mammogram can be done. Diagnostic mammograms are also done following surgery as a routine check up. The Diagnostic Mammography department is located in the Medical Imaging department at The Moncton Hospital. It is at this location where a patient would have any follow-up images from a screening mammogram. This follow-up work would be recommended by the radiologist (the doctor who reads the mammograms). The Diagnostic Mammography department is responsible for performing two special procedures: Stereotactic breast core biopsy Breast needle localization Stereotactic breast core biopsy uses computer guidance to remove five to six breast tissue samples at the area of concern. These tissue samples are then sent to the lab for analysis and a report of the results forwarded to the physician’s office. Breast needle localization involves the placement of a hooked wire in a non-palpable area of concern in the breast. This wire acts as an indicator for the surgeon. It indicates the exact area that should be removed. Breast imaging services are available at two South-East Regional Health Authority locations: The Katherine Wright Family Wellness Centre offers breast screening for women ages 50 to 69 every two years without a physician referral. These women can call to book their own mammogram. Women requiring a screening mammogram on an annual basis, or who are outside of this age bracket, must book through their referring physician. For general inquiries, phone (506) 855-2010. The Moncton Hospital offers diagnostic mammography services in their Medical Imaging department, located on the main floor. For more information, phone (506) 857-5280 and ask for the Mammography department. What to expect when coming in for a mammogram: The technologist will introduce herself prior to the mammogram. A brief explanation of the procedure will be given to the patient. The patient will be asked to fill out a standard questionnaire about their history and present breast condition. The patient stands or is seated directly in front of the mammography unit. Two images are taken for each breast (radiographic views). The breast is then positioned on a special platform and compressed with a plastic paddle to help prevent movement of the breast during the mammogram, and to reduce the radiation dose. It is not uncommon to follow a routine mammogram with cone compression/magnification views of a specific area of a breast. This is requested by the radiologist and will help clarify any area of concern. A biopsy may be recommended if the concern of possible malignancy (cancer) continues following a mammogram. Contact information: Breast Screening Imaging Services Katherine Wright Family Wellness Centre 234 Reade Street Moncton, N.B. E1C 6S8 Ph: (506) 855-2010 Fax: (506) 855-2018 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Every second Tuesday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Diagnostic Mammography Services: Medical Imaging The Moncton Hospital 135 MacBeath Avenue Moncton, N.B. E1C 6Z8 Ph: (506) 857-5280 Fax: (506) 857-5298 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.