What is Mammography?
Mammography is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.
An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.
Two recent advances in mammography include digital mammography and computer-aided detection.
Digital mammography, also called full-field digital mammography (FFDM), is a mammography system in which the x-ray film is replaced by solid-state detectors that convert x-rays into electrical signals. These detectors are similar to those found in digital cameras. The electrical signals are used to produce images of the breast that can be seen on a computer screen or printed on special film similar to conventional mammograms. From the patient's point of view, having a digital mammogram is essentially the same as having a conventional film screen mammogram. This unit is planned to be functional and available to patients in 2011.
What are some common uses of the procedure?
Screening Mammography (OBSP - Ontario Breast Screening Program)
Mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast cancers because it can show changes in the breast before signs and symptoms are present. Early detection leads to more treatment options and a higher successful rate.
Diagnostic Mammography
Diagnostic mammography is used to evaluate a patient with abnormal clinical findings—such as a breast lump or lumps—that have been found by the woman or her doctor. Diagnostic mammography may also be done after an abnormal screening mammography in order to evaluate the area of concern on the screening exam.
What will I experience during and after the procedure?
Mammography is performed on an outpatient basis.
You will stand in front of an X-ray machine specially designed for mammograms. The technologist will place a breast on a plate and holds the X-ray film. A second plate will slowly come down on top of your breast tissue. This allows the technologist to get a clear picture of your breast, but only for a few seconds while the mammogram is being taken. This pressure does not harm your breast tissue. The technologist will review the pictures to make sure they are of good quality. If needed, she will take extra pictures.
How should I prepare?
Do not schedule your mammogram for the week before your period if your breasts are usually tender during this time. The best time for a mammogram is one week following your period. Always inform your doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.
- Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam. These can appear on the mammogram as calcium spots.
- Describe any breast symptoms or problems to the technologist performing the exam.
- Arrive 15 mins in advance as you will need to register first in Patient registration
- Ask when your results will be available; do not assume the results are normal if you do not hear from your doctor or the mammography facility.
Do clients require a referral from their doctor in order to have access to your services?
Yes - For Diagnostic
No - For OBSP
Hours and days of operation:
Hours of operation are 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Screening Mammography: currently offered by OBSP 3 days a week on.
Diagnostic Mammography: currently offered 2 days a week. (Screening mammography for women under the age of 50 or Quebec patients are offered during these 2 days as well)
Public phone number and/or email. :
For Diagnostic Mammography appointment (613) 632-1111, ext. 417
For OBSP Mammography appointment (613)632-1111 ext 359