Breast Care and Mammography
Breast Cancer is the most common cancer among women of all ages. If detected early, breast cancer has a five-year survival rate of over 95 percent. Mammography serves as the best known method for early detection and has the ability to detect breast cancers before they can be felt. Breast self exams should be performed by women monthly to check for lumps, thicknesses, or other changes in the breast.
Screening Guidelines
Women age 20 years and older should perform a breast self-examination each month and those between 20 and 39 years of age should have a clinical exam by a physician every three years. If you are a women age 40 or older, it is recommended you have a mammogram and a clinical breast exam by a healthcare professional each year. Those with a family history of breast cancer are at increased risk and should speak with your physician about when to begin screening mammograms and the recommended frequency of your screenings.
The Breast Center at Good Shepherd
At the Breast Center at Good Shepherd Medical Center, we strive to deliver the highest quality care to our patients by using the most advanced technology available. We provide a comprehensive scope of services addressing your physical, emotional and educational needs in a peaceful, spa-like atmosphere.
Good Shepherd is home to the first Breast Center in Longview and the community’s first and only Digital Mobile Breast Center. You can feel at ease at this comprehensive breast center with our knowledgeable staff of medical professionals and the convenience of all diagnostic services in one location. Mammography services are performed by an all-female, advanced level certified mammography staff. In addition, our board certified Radiologists are available on-site and have received additional training in digital mammography, so your diagnosis is quick and accurate. Good Shepherd is one of only twelve in Texas to hold the Breast Center Seal of Excellence Award from the American College of Radiology.
Digital Mammography
A mammogram is a high quality X-ray exam of the breast used to detect and diagnose breast cancer and other diseases of the breast. This procedure uses very low doses of radiation. The Breast Center at Good Shepherd offers the latest in breast imaging, a fully digital center. In most cases, a digital mammogram can identify an abnormal breast mass as much as two years before it can be detected by touch. Digital mammography is different from conventional mammography in how the image of the breast is viewed and, more importantly, manipulated. This allows the mammographer to confirm proper positioning and reduces the likelihood of needing repeat exams. In addition, digital technology offers improved visibility of the breast, particularly near the skin line, the chest wall and in women with dense breast tissue.
Screening Mammograms are used as a preventive measure for women who have no symptoms of breast disease. A screening mammogram usually involves two views of each breast.
Diagnostic Mammograms involve additional views of the breast and are used when an abnormality is found during a routine screening mammogram. This method is also used in patients who have complaints including breast mass, pain or skin irritation.
Additional Services
Should further testing be needed following a diagnostic mammogram, many times it can be performed the same day. Some of these procedures might include:
Ultrasound uses sound waves to identify suspicious areas in the breast so that tissue samples may be taken with a needle. This method is often utilized by physicians because the procedure is faster, less invasive and causes little discomfort as compared to a traditional surgical biopsy.
Stereotactic Breast Biopsy uses three-dimensional computerized imaging to identify suspicious areas in the breast so that tissue samples can be taken with a needle. This method is useful when abnormalities can be viewed on a mammogram or through ultrasound, but cannot be felt by touch.
MRI uses a magnet and radio frequency to image breast tissue without radiation. This method is useful to visualize lesions in dense breasts and ruptures in implants. It is helpful to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions. An MRI-guided biopsy can be performed if lesions are identified.
Take time to schedule your annual mammogram today. Call (903) 315-2130.
You do not need a referral from your physician.
Click here to link to the American Cancer Society’s website.
Bone Density Screening
Bone Density Screening is a simple procedure that determines your bone health. The test measures your bone calcium and density to identify osteoporosis and determine your risk for fractures. Valuable information about the health of your bones can be gathered through this test, often in time to prevent osteoporosis.
Call (903) 315-2130 today to schedule your appointment.