Digital Mammography: Frequently Asked Questions

The physicians and technologist, as well as, the mammographic equipment are certified and accredited by the American College of Radiology and the FDA. Lenox Hill Radiology has consistently received top marks from FDA inspectors and this year was one of only a few centers made exempt from the previously mandatory annual FDA inspection. Lenox Hill Radiology will instead be inspected biannually. This recognition of our high standards only increases our commitment to quality and service.

No, additional imaging is quite routine. It does not necessarily mean that you have cancer. It is another way of imaging the breast so that the radiologist can see things in the breast in a slightly different manner.

According to the ACR (American College of Radiology), an ultrasound is not used as a screening tool for breast imaging. An ultrasound is used in conjunction with a mammogram to image the breast tissue differently. It can tell if images in the breast are fluid filled, a cyst, a benign condition, or is a solid nodule. Not all solid nodules are cancer. Ultrasound can detect abnormalities in the breast via sound waves. There is no radiation with an ultrasound.

The American Cancer Society recommends that you have your first mammogram between 35 and 40 years of age. Exactly how soon and how often thereafter depends upon your personal risk factors and family history. Generally this should be about every 1 to 2 years. This is something you should discuss with your personal physician.

The radiologist will study your mammogram. The results will be made available to you from your referring physician.

Breast exams are not performed at Lenox Hill. We only accept patients who have been referred by their physician and have therefore most likely already had a breast exam.

It is extremely important to bring any prior mammos. This allows the radiologist to determine whether a finding is new or has been there for sometime. In many cases having previous studies can prevent needless further imaging and even biopsy.

We strongly discourage patients from bringing previous mammos for comparison that are copies. We will only use these for comparison if no other studies are available. Any film copied leads to a loss of detail and this is especially critical in a mammogram. When ever possible patients should obtain their originals. Lenox Hill radiology does not copy mammo films. It will release originals to the patient once a written release has been signed.

We ask that patients do not wear either powder or deodorant. However for the patients that are coming to our facility during evening hours or for whatever reason cannot comply with this request we do supply special hypoallergenic wipes for use prior to the exam.