The most common examination performed is screening mammography of asymptomatic women 40 years of age and over as recommended by the American Medical Association, American Cancer Society, and American College of Radiology. If a finding is discovered on the screening mammogram that is new or different than the year before, then further evaluation may be required such as a diagnostic mammogram with a possible targeted breast ultrasound. Other options for the diagnosis of a suspicious breast finding include stereotactic core biopsy, ultrasound core biopsy, fine needle aspiration biopsy or a wire localization procedure, galactography, or palpable core biopsy (this last procedure performed by a breast surgeon).

The Division is also actively involved in the multidisciplinary University of Breast Care Center, a major referral center for woman with both malignant and benign breast problems. This provides a close working relationship with the Departments of Surgery, Pathology, Radiation Oncology and Internal Medicine.

Definitions:

Screening mammography is a radiological examination of the breast of asymptomatic women 40 years of age of older. It is used to detect breast masses and abnormalities before they have a chance to enlarge to a palpable breast mass. If your screening mammogram is normal it is recommended to have another screening mammogram in 12 months until the age of 80.

Diagnostic mammogram is a radiological examination used to further investigate a finding identified in screening mammography or if a women has a complaint such as a palpable mass, previous history of breast cancer, new inverted nipple etc. Generally, more images or ultrasound are required as directed by the radiologist.

Stereotactic core biopsy uses the principles of mammography to guide the radiologist to obtain samples of tissue through a small excision thus saving the patient from a surgical procedure.

Ultrasound core biopsy uses the principles of ultrasound to guide the radiologist to obtain samples of tissue though a small excision thus saving the patient from a surgical procedure.

Fine needle aspiration biopsies are often performed to determine the solid or cystic nature of a mass.

Needle wire localizations are performed using mammography to guide a thin gauge wire to an area for a surgeon to subsequently obtain a tissue sample.