Diagnostics

Diagnostic Mammography

Diagnostic mammography is an x-ray exam of the breasts that is performed in order to evaluate a particular complaint or abnormality detected by a physician, a routine screening mammogram or yourself. Due to insurance, you must have a doctor's order to have a diagnostic mammogram completed. diagnostic mammogram is different from a screening mammogram in that more views are taken of the breast in question. The goal of a diagnostic mammogram is to pinpoint the exact size and location of the abnormality and to image the surrounding tissue. If the abnormality looks suspicious, additional imaging and procedures will be ordered.

Ultrasound Imaging of the Breast

Breast ultrasound produces images of the breast via sound waves. Breast ultrasound can image both benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) lesions. Breast ultrasound is frequently used to evaluate breast abnormalities that are found with a screening or diagnostic mammogram or by a physician during a clinical breast exam. Ultrasound allows significant freedom in obtaining images of the breast from almost any angle or orientation. Ultrasound can often quickly determine if a suspicious area is in fact a cyst or a benign or malignant lesion.

Mammography vs. Ultrasound

Both may be necessary for a complete picture and are considered complementary procedures. Mammography is excellent in imaging microcalcifications, whereas, ultrasound is unable to image microcalcifications very well. The list of comparisons can go on and on - but both are important and necessary to assist in diagnosis of breast abnormalities.***There may be additional tests that Dr. Cross will order for patients in particular situations such as a breast MRI, chest x-ray, blood work, bone scans, PET scans or CT scans.