Medical Services > Radiology Services > Diagnostic Radiology > Breast Imaging

Breast Imaging – Mammogram, Ultrasound, MRI

What is breast imaging?
Although patients may be familiar with routine mammograms, many women don’t realize that these are only one of several breast imaging procedures, each serving a different purpose.

A screening mammogram is a detailed x-ray of the breast that can detect cancerous or precancerous areas before a lump is found on physical exam.

A diagnostic mammogram is offered to women with breast symptoms such as a lump, nipple discharge or skin change. They are also used for women who have previously had an abnormal screening and for women with implants.

Breast MRI is used to screen high risk patients (such as gene carriers) and to further evaluate recently diagnosed breast cancer.

Breast ultrasound is offered to women with dense breasts or to evaluate lumps that have been detected either on physical examination or by mammography.

Needle localization can mark abnormal imaging findings for surgeons to guide excisional biopsy.

Image-guided core biopsy is a minimally invasive needle biopsy performed under local anesthesia.

Computer Aided Diagnosis (CAD) is used to help improve early detection of breast cancer.

Why do I need a mammogram?
A mammogram is the single best test for detecting breast cancer in its earliest stages.

Protecting Women’s Good Health
Women of average risk should have a baseline mammogram between 35–40 and annually after age 40.

A baseline mammogram is intended to capture images of a healthy breast to serve as a comparison for future exams.

Monthly self-exam and annual physical exam are important components of a complete breast health program. A woman who notices a lump or changes in her breast should consult her physician immediately. Early detection is the best protection.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not have a screening mammogram.

Women who have breast implants should alert the technician prior to their exams.

Breast imaging is among Greenwich Hospital’s broad range of diagnostic and interventional radiology services.

Radiology services are generally pain-free, non-invasive and available to both outpatients and inpatients.