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 diagnosis of breast diseases in
women and men. Mammograms are used as a screening tool to detect early breast cancer in
women experiencing no symptoms and to detect and diagnose breast disease in women
experiencing symptoms such as a lump, pain or nipple discharge.
Nemaha County now offers three-dimensional mammograms, a service also known as
“tomosynthesis”. This technology is becoming more common as many health care facilities in
Nebraska are enhancing current 2D mammography with 3D technology. The exam allows
doctors to examine breast tissue layer by layer. Instead of viewing all the complexities of breast
tissue in a flat image, as with conventional 2D mammography. Now, fine details are more visible and
no longer hidden by the tissue above or below.
Recommendations for your mammography appointment:
- 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.
- If possible, obtain prior mammograms and make them available to the radiologist at the time of
the current exam. Results of your mammogram can be obtained by contacting your ordering
physician’s office. Also, a letter containing the results will be sent to the address listed upon
check-in.
