Breast health

A mammogram is an imaging procedure where low-dose X-rays are used to examine breast tissue. Specially trained doctors (radiologists) interpret these imaging results to determine if there are any abnormalities in the breast.

• Screening mammogram – Typically, women 40 years old and older are advised to get annual screening mammograms. Annual mammograms are extremely important to find any evidence of at an early stage breast cancer, improving the likelihood of successful treatments. A digital mammogram has the capability of locating lumps that are too small to find by touch alone.
• Diagnostic mammogram – If something abnormal is found, or if there are symptoms such as pain or nipple discharge, a diagnostic mammogram may be scheduled for further analysis. Additional tests may be performed, including a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or biopsy. Diagnostic mammograms may also be used to monitor breast cancer through the treatment process or for those who are in remission.
• 3D mammogram – Our breast care specialists offer tomosynthesis, which is a 3D mammogram. During this type of mammogram, multiple images are taken from a variety of angles, generating a 3D reconstruction of the breast. This higher-quality image allows radiologists to diagnose potential abnormalities with better accuracy.

If an abnormality is found during a mammogram, a diagnostic ultrasound is used to determine if the lump is benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Ultrasounds may also be used for younger women instead of a mammogram. This is because dense milk glands in younger women's breasts can make it difficult to distinguish between lumps and glands on a mammogram.

MRI scans may be used to find potential abnormalities undetected by a mammogram. This is usually reserved for women who have a higher genetic risk of breast cancer or for women who are monitoring effects from treatment.

MRI scans may be used to find potential abnormalities undetected by a mammogram. This is usually reserved for women who have a higher genetic risk of breast cancer or for women who are monitoring effects from treatment.

• Breast biopsy – If something unusual is found in your breast, the next step is usually a biopsy. This means taking a small piece of tissue to check for any problems. We perform all types of biopsies, including fine needle, core needle and surgical biopsies.
• Fine needle biopsy – In a fine needle biopsy, a very thin needle is used to collect cells from the abnormal tissue. These cells are analyzed under a microscope. This type of biopsy is usually only done for lumps that can be felt by touch. It is the least invasive type of biopsy, taking only a few minutes in a doctor's office.
• Core needle biopsy – A core needle biopsy uses a hollow needle to take a small tissue sample for testing. It gives doctors more details than a fine-needle biopsy, such as how quickly the lump is growing, whether it might spread, and if it needs certain hormones like estrogen to grow. If the lump can be felt by touch, the biopsy is usually done in a doctor’s office. If not, imaging helps guide the needle. The types of image-guided biopsies we offer include stereotactic biopsy (uses mammogram), ultrasound-guided biopsy and MRI-guided biopsy.
• Surgical biopsy – Sometimes your doctor may recommend a surgical biopsy. This usually means removing the whole lump and a little healthy tissue around it. This method gives the most accurate results and the most information if cancer is found. Ask your doctor about any risks and whether this is the best option for you.

Patients may also receive a DEXA bone density scan or DEXA body fat analysis as part of their complete breast health evaluation. This is because low bone density and/or high body fat are associated with higher risk of breast cancer.

If your mammogram or other diagnostic test results in a positive cancer diagnosis, our experienced oncologists, nurse navigators and specialists are here for you every step of the way. In partnership with HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network, TriStar Health fights breast cancer by combining advanced technologies with exceptional, patient-focused care.