MultiCare Health System

Digital Mammography

What Is digital mammography?Digital vs Anolog - breast
Digital mammography takes an image of the breast and stores it directly in a computer. Both digital and film mammography use X-rays to produce an image of the breast. However, digital mammography uses less radiation than film mammography.

In addition to the clarity of digital imaging, MultiCare uses software called computer aided detection or CAD. This software is like a second pair of specially trained eyes looking at the digital images. Once your breast images have been taken, CAD technology automatically reviews them and marks potential abnormalities for the radiologist to examine while reading your mammogram.

The image above shows a film mammogram on the left and a much clearer digital image on the right.

What are screening mammograms like?
For your comfort, your mammogram will always be performed in private by a certified female technologist with advanced training in mammography.

Typically, a screening mammogram consists of two views of each breast, one from above and one from the side. Images are obtained by compressing your breast tissue between a compression paddle and plate. Adequate compression is essential to detect subtle abnormalities and reduce radiation exposure.  

How to prepare for your mammogram
Following these tips may reduce discomfort from breast compression:

  • Schedule your examination one week following your menstrual cycle.
  • Eliminate coffee, tea or caffeinated products five days prior to your exam.
  • Take a non-aspirin pain reliever such as Tylenol (Acetaminophen), Motrin/Advil (Ibuprofen), or Aleve (Naproxen) one hour before your examination.

When you schedule your appointment let us know if:
  • You have had previous mammograms at other locations
  • You are nursing or if you think you could be pregnant
  • You have breast implants so that extra time may be allotted
  • You have had any recent breast surgeries or biopsies
  • You have or have had a personal history of breast cancer

To avoid delay or rescheduling of your mammogram:
  • Please make arrangements for child care during your scheduled appointment time. If you are unable to find care please call and reschedule your appointment.
  • Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to register for your exam.
  • Plan for at least 30 additional minutes to complete the entire exam process.
  • Remove any powder, perfumes, deodorant and/or lotions from your underarms and breasts. Moist towelettes are provided and deodorant is available to reapply after your exam.


Mammograms with breast implants
All women, including those with breast implants, should participate in regular mammography screenings. Mammography with breast implants requires special positioning and additional mammographic views. The implants make the examination harder to read, making monthly self exams, clinical physical examinations and digital screening a very important part of breast implant health.

A mammogram with breast implants will usually consist of four views of each breast, one from above and one from the side and two displacement views.

Does it mean I have cancer if my mammogram result is abnormal?
With digital mammography radiologists are seeing more details not seen before. It is not uncommon to get called back for an additional look. A vast majority of breast abnormalities are benign (not cancer).

How will I get the results of my mammogram?
Your mammogram and any additional studies will be carefully examined by a board-certified radiologist. Your findings will be forwarded to your health care provider. A letter briefly explaining the results will be mailed to your address.

I’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, what should I do next?
At the MultiCare Regional Cancer Center we offer a Nurse Navigator program as a resource to help you navigate through the complexity of a breast cancer diagnosis. From treatment information to side effects, our Nurse Navigators work with you and your physician managing your care every step of the way. To schedule an appointment with a nurse navigator, call 253-372-7240.



Mammography Locations

MultiCare offers complete mammography services at four care sites. A registered female mammography technologist at each location below performs mammograms and a board-certified radiologist interprets results.

Breast Health Services at Allenmore C Building
Phone:  253-459-6311
Monday - Saturday 7:30 am - 5 pm  Fax:  253-459-6314 
Breast Biopsy - Breast Health Education - Galactography - Preoperative Needle Localization - Screening and Diagnostic Mammograms


Breast Health Services at Auburn MultiCare Health Center
Phone:  253-876-8190
Fax:  253-876-8186
Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5 pm  
Digital Screening Mammography - Stereotactic Biopsy - Breast Ultrasound - Breast Health Specialist - DXA


Breast Health Services at Covington MultiCare Clinic
Phone:  253-372-7240
Fax:  253-372-7246
Monday - Friday 8 am - 4 pm 
Suite: 130 
Breast Health Education - Breast Health Imaging - Breast Health Nurse Navigator - Digital Mammography - Screening and Diagnostic Mammography - Stereotactic Breast Biopsy - DXA
 

Breast Health Services at Gig Harbor MultiCare Clinic
Phone:  253-530-8122
Monday - Saturday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm 
Suite: 130 
Breast Health Education - Digital Mammography - Screening Mammograms

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MultiCare Breast Health Achieves 3rd Straight Year of Perfect National Inspections

Breast Health is pleased to announce that all four sites recently passed our annual MQSA (Mammography Quality Standards Act)/FDA inspections with no deficiencies. This is the third year in a row for this achievement.