Digital Mammography

In response to the recent statements from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force regarding screening mammograms, CDI and our staff continue to support the guidelines previously established by the American Cancer Society.

This page includes general information about what you can expect before, during and after your exam. For more specific information about your appointment, please contact the local center where your appointment is scheduled.

Digital mammography is a safe, low-dose x-ray picture of the breast that allows early detection of breast cancer. Screening mammograms are considered a routine yearly exam for women with no new breast problems. If you have new breast symptoms or problems you will need a diagnostic mammogram. A physician order is not required for an annual screening mammogram, but is required for a diagnostic mammogram. Specific imaging centers offer screening and/or diagnostic digital mammography. You can call one of our facilities directly to schedule.

During a typical annual screening mammogram, images are taken of each breast from two angles. Sometimes a follow-up diagnostic mammogram is needed after a screening mammogram to collect more information about your breast tissue. A diagnostic mammogram may take longer than a screening mammogram as it requires more images and different angles to rule out any abnormalities.

Benefits of Digital Mammography

Shorter exams with higher quality images compared to analog mammography
Better visibility of the entire breast, particularly of dense breasts
Images can be enhanced for more diagnostic information
Capabilities result in fewer repeat views, which can mean less radiation exposure
(up to 50% less)

Exam preparation

A representative of our center will call you prior to your appointment to provide specific instructions, and review health and insurance information.
You will need to provide the name, address and phone number of any facility where you have had a prior mammogram or bring previous films. The radiologist may need your previous films for comparison in order to make an accurate assessment.
Do not use deodorant, talcum powder, or lotion under your arms or near your breasts on the day of your mammogram.
Wear a two-piece outfit so you will have to remove only your top. You will be provided a gown or robe.
Notify a member of our staff if you are nursing of if there is a chance you could be pregnant.
Please arrive 15 minutes early to verify your registration.

During your exam – what to expect

You will be positioned in front of a special x-ray machine.
One at a time, each of your breasts will be compressed briefly between an adjustable platform and a clear plate. Some brief pressure is necessary to flatten the breast in order to get the clearest picture.
The entire exam typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

What happens after the exam?

Ask a member of our staff for more specific information on when and how you will receive your results. However, in general you can expect:

A radiologist who specializes in breast imaging will review your mammography images. The radiologist prepares a diagnostic report to share with your doctor.
Your doctor will consider the written report in context of your overall care, and talk with you about the results. Mammogram results will also be mailed to you within 2 weeks.
If the radiologist requests additional images, you will receive a phone call from our staff within 24-48 business hours to schedule the follow-up diagnostic procedure.
Reminder letters will be sent to all patients for a routine annual screening mammogram

The following CDI centers offer Screening Digital Mammography:

Illinois:
Geneva

Minnesota:
Alexandria
Eden Prairie East
Minnetonka
St. Cloud NW
St. Cloud South
West St Paul
Willmar

Missouri:
Chesterfield Valley - St. Luke's Women's Center
Creve Coeur - Midwest Breast
O’Fallon (WingHaven)
Bridgeton (SSM Imaging)

Wisconsin:
Menomonee Falls
Waukesha