MR Elastography now at Star Imaging, Bund Garden. MRE assesses the entire liver and detects fibrosis at an earlier stage than any other imaging method.
What does a (3D) mammography scan involve? And what should you expect? Dr. Aparna Atre, our senior consultant radiologist, explains.
What happens once a mammography patient comes to the centre?
Dr. Aparna: Before your 3D mammography scan, our staff will ask you for your past medical records and give you a quick form to fill. Post that, you’ll be given a hospital gown to change into. Make sure you remove all clothing above your waist, including all jewellery. Inform the technicians if you’ve applied deodorant or perfume by mistake – we’ll give you a tissue to wipe it off; otherwise it may appear as spots on the scan.
What does the actual mammogram involve?
Dr. Aparna: Once in the mammography room, our female technician (we only have female technicians assisting our patients) will help you position your breast on the MammoPad (a soft, padded cushion, for extra comfort) that is placed over the Mammography plate; the machine will then compress your breast. This may be slightly uncomfortable, but it hardly lasts for a few seconds. Plus, our advanced 3D mammography scanner (the most advanced in the world) takes faster scans, reducing the compression time. The same procedure will be repeated for the other breast, and multiple images will be taken from different angles.
During this time, you will be asked to move your hand and body in different ways – but just relax and follow the instructions. You may also be asked to stand still and hold your breath for a few seconds while the machine takes images, since any movement can cause blurriness.
We’ve heard terror tales of pain – of women fainting…how true are these?
Dr. Aparna: In all my years as a breast imaging specialist, I’ve never had any patient faint from pain. The pain may be severe for a handful of patients (but this can be tackled with OTC medication), but in majority of the cases, it’s just an uncomfortable sensation. Plus, our technicians take the greatest care possible to ensure a comfortable experience.
Apart from discomfort, there’s also the element of embarrassment for many women. How should one approach that?
Dr. Aparna: Take my word for it when I say there’s absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about – all of us (doctors and technicians) look at mammograms as a routine part of our job – much like a gynecologist - and we’ve done so many mammograms for others and ourselves, till date! The only people who get embarrassed are the patients – but there’s absolutely no need – breasts are just another body part.
So who should get a mammography done?
Dr. Aparna: I strongly recommend all women above the age of 40 to get screened regularly - I myself get screened annually. Plus, it’s easier than getting waxed, so take that 3D mammography appointment today!
Star Imaging is a leading diagnostic centre with the world’s most advanced imaging technology and 12 super-specialized radiologists. Click here to take advantage of our special Mammography discounts; or call 020 4122 2222/4132 2222 for more information.