Breast Imaging
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Lower Keys Medical Center's Women's Imaging Center is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., with extended hours on Saturday, October 7th and October 14th, from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. A discounted self-pay rate is available through the month of October. A physician's order is required for all mammograms.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends women who are at average risk for breast cancer get screening mammograms every two years starting at age 40.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. Lower Keys Medical Center provides helpful services to educate women on breast health, and encourage self-exams and routine screenings. We utilize imaging technology that may detect breast cancer at the earliest stages, when treatment can be most effective. The combination of caring technologists and imaging technology allows us to deliver quality care.
Digital Mammography
Mammography is an X-ray exam of the breasts used to screen for or diagnose breast cancer. Lower Keys Medical Center offers digital imaging technology for mammograms. With digital technology, radiologists can zoom in on particular areas or change brightness or contrast for even greater visibility, and results can be read immediately. It offers numerous benefits to women, including:
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Improved accuracy of screening exams, especially for women with dense breast tissue.
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Less radiation exposure.
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Greater image quality, reducing the need for repeat exams.
Breast Ultrasound
A breast ultrasound is often used to further evaluate an abnormality found during a mammogram. Ultrasound allows doctors to see the area closest to the chest wall, which can be difficult to see using mammography. This technology also helps doctors determine whether a breast lump is filled with fluid (a cyst) or is a solid mass.
Stereotactic biopsies
When a lump or abnormal area is detected during screening, a biopsy can determine whether cells are cancerous. Advanced imaging technology - such as mammography or ultrasound - can be combined with minimally invasive techniques to obtain tissue samples. Lower Keys Medical Center offers digital stereotactic biopsies for maximum comfort.
To schedule a mammogram or other screening exam, please call 1-305-294-5535, ext. 3308.
*For American College of Radiology recommendations, visit acr.org. Appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis. An order from a physician or qualified healthcare provider is required. All mammogram reports will be sent to the physician/provider, and the patient is responsible for follow-up. Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for a screening mammogram. If you do not have insurance, options may be available to help with the cost.
**According to acr.org, breast tomosynthesis (3D) has shown to be an advance over digital (2D) mammography, with higher cancer detection rates and few patient recalls for additional testing.