Mammography

Mammography is still one of the most reliable and frequently recommended ways to find breast problems early on, when they may be treated. Early diagnosis saves lives. As technology gets better, new mammography equipment gives clearer pictures, gets results faster, and is more comfortable, giving women the confidence to take charge of their breast health.

We talk about what mammography is, how it has changed over time, the several varieties offered at our hospital, who should get screened, and what to expect during the operation in this blog.

Mammography is a specialised breast imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to detect changes or abnormalities in breast tissue. It is considered the gold standard for screening and diagnosing breast cancer.

A mammogram can reveal:

• Lumps too small to feel
• Microcalcifications
• Tissue distortions
• Early signs of breast cancer

This early detection is crucial because breast cancer is highly treatable when identified in its initial stages.
Earlier X-rays were used to study breast tissue. Over time, new technology transformed mammography from simple radiographs to digital systems, and more recently to 3D tomosynthesis and contrast-enhanced imaging. Today’s advanced mammography machines provide high-resolution images with minimal radiation exposure and far greater accuracy.

Mammography helps diagnose a wide range of breast-related conditions, including:

• Breast cancer (early and advanced stages)
• Fibroadenomas
• Breast cysts
• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
• Calcifications
• Breast infections or inflammation (mastitis)
• Benign breast changes

We use the most up-to-date equipment to provide a full variety of breast imaging services that give reliable diagnoses.

1. Digital Mammography: Uses electronic detectors instead of film, which makes things clearer and makes it easier to see thick breast tissue.
2. 2. 3D Mammography (Digital Breast Tomosynthesis): Gives you layered pictures of the breast, which helps find cancer more often and lowers the number of false positives.
3. 3. Contrast Mammography: This new imaging technique uses contrast dye and dual-energy X-rays to show problematic lesions. When regular mammograms aren't clear or more tests are needed, contrast mammography is very beneficial.

General recommendations include:

• Women who are 40 years old or older: Screening once a year or every other year, as your doctor recommends.
• Women with family history of breast cancer: May need to start getting screened sooner.
• Women with thick breasts may need more imaging: For this 3D mammography or ultrasound is preferred.

Always talk to a breast specialist about the best strategy to screen you.

• Early detection of breast cancer before symptoms appear
• Reduced mortality rates associated with breast cancer
• Better treatment options with higher success rates
• Helps monitor breast health over time
• Quick, non-invasive, and widely accessible

A mammography procedure typically takes 15–20 minutes and involves:

1. Standing in front of the mammography machine
2. Compression of each breast between plates to spread tissue evenly
3. Taking X-ray images from different angles
4. Quick review to ensure image clarity

Compression may feel uncomfortable but should not be painful, and it lasts only a few seconds per image.

• Latest-generation mammography machines for enhanced accuracy
• 3D tomosynthesis and contrast mammography for comprehensive breast evaluation
• Expert radiologists specialising in breast imaging
• Comfort-focused care, ensuring minimal discomfort
• Fast reporting and guided follow-up if additional tests are needed

Your safety, privacy, and comfort are at the centre of every screening we perform.