Breast health is an important part of any woman's health. Because breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies that women get around the world, early detection is our best weapon. Modern breast imaging can find abnormalities in breast tissue long before symptoms appear. This allows for early treatment and greatly improves results.
We use the latest technology, skilled radiologists, and caring staff at our Breast Imaging Centre to make sure that every woman gets the most accurate diagnosis with the least amount of pain. This in-depth guide will explain what breast imaging is, who needs it, what to expect, and why it's important to choose the correct center.
What is Breast Imaging?
- Breast imaging is a group of specialized tests that make detailed photographs of breast tissue.
- Tests including mammography, breast ultrasonography, MRI, and contrast-enhanced imaging are very important for finding problems that can't be felt during a physical checkup.
- Breast imaging can help detect:
- Signs of breast cancer in its early stages
- Bumps or masses
- Cysts
- Little bits of calcium
- Changes to the structure
- Infection or swelling
- Changes after therapy
The goal is always the same: find any problems as soon as possible, when treatment works best. Compared to prior technology, modern breast imaging systems give sharper pictures, lower radiation doses, faster results, and more comfortable experiences. This is very critical for women with dense breasts, women who are younger, and women who have a family history of breast cancer.
Who Needs Breast Imaging?
A lot of women should get breast imaging, not only those who have symptoms. Your doctor may suggest imaging for any of the following reasons:
- Regular Screening: For women with average risk, most medical standards say they should start getting mammograms every year or every two years at age 40. Regular screenings help keep track of little changes over time.
- Symptoms or worries about the breasts: If you see any of the following, breast imaging is very important:
- A fresh bump or thick spot
- Breast pain that doesn't go away
- Discharge from the nipple
- Changes in the skin, like dimpling or reddening
- Changes in the size or form of the breasts
- A history of illness in the family or a genetic risk: Women having a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, or who have BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations, may need to be screened earlier, often as early as 30.
- Thick breast tissue
Standard mammography alone is less effective at finding cancer in women with dense breasts. You may need more imaging tests, such 3D mammography, ultrasonography, or MRI.
- After Treatment Follow-Up
Women who have had surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy need regular imaging to keep an eye on their healing and look for signs of cancer returning.
- Programs for assessing high risk
Women who are at high risk often get both a mammogram and an MRI to get the most precise results.
What to expect at your Breast Imaging Appointment?
The goal of a breast imaging appointment is to be smooth, confidential, and pleasant. This is what usually happens:
- Arrival & registration: You will be taken to a pleasant waiting area and asked to fill out a short health questionnaire.
- Change of clothes: You will be given a comfortable gown that will help make imaging more accurate.
- Number of tests: Depending on the prescribed tests you will be asked to assist imaging
- Mammography: Two plates gently squeeze the breast to take clear pictures. Compression only lasts a few seconds.
- Ultrasound: A handheld instrument with gel that moves over the breast to make pictures in real time.
- MRI: You will lie face-down on a comfortable table while comprehensive cross-sectional pictures will be taken.
- Contrast-Enhanced Imaging: An injection of a safe contrast dye can be used to make aberrant tissue stand out.
- Length: Most imaging tests last between 10 and 30 minutes.
After your scan, you can go back to your routine activities right away unless told differently. Meanwhile, our radiologists will carefully look over your images and send your doctor a thorough report right away.
Why Choose Us?
Choosing the right imaging center is highly critical for getting the right diagnosis. The Breast Centre at the CK Birla Hospital Gurgaon sets its own benchmark. This is what sets us apart:
- We use the most up-to-date digital mammography, 3D tomosynthesis, breast ultrasonography, MRI, and contrast-enhanced imaging to get the most accurate results.
- Experienced team of Radiologists: Our breast imaging specialists, who have finished a fellowship, are very good at spotting small issues.
- Patient-Centered Care: We put comfort and privacy first, and we make sure that the whole experience is helpful.
- Quick, Accurate Reporting: Our streamlined process makes sure that reports reach you quickly without losing quality.
- Integrated Breast Care: We work closely with breast surgeons, oncologists, and psychologists, so our facility is the best place to go for all your breast health needs.
- Help for Patients at High Risk: We offer tailored screening plans, genetic risk evaluations, and programs for attentive monitoring.