Breast Imaging
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. Merit Health Wesley 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 helps us to deliver quality care.
Breast Care Center
You've got a lot to do each day, which is why Merit Health Wesley has made getting the medical screenings you need more convenient than ever - at the Breast Care Center. The Breast Care Center, located in the heart of the hospital, provides health services - including 3D mammography and ultrasounds - all designed with the patient's comfort in mind.
For more information, and to schedule an appointment, please call (601) 296-3400.
Digital Mammography
Mammography is an X-ray exam of the breasts used to screen for or diagnose breast cancer. Merit Health Wesley 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.
3D Mammogram
3D mammography is a screening and diagnostic tool designed for early breast cancer detection that can be done in conjunction with a traditional 2D digital mammogram.
During the 3D part of the exam, the X-ray arm moves in a slight arc over your breast, taking multiple breast images. Then, a computer produces a 3D image of your breast tissue in one millimeter slices, providing greater visibility for the radiologist to see breast detail in a way never before possible. They can scroll through images of your entire breast like pages of a book.
The additional 3D images make it possible for a radiologist to gain a better understanding of your breast tissue during screening, often significantly improving early breast cancer detection and providing the confidence to reduce the need for follow-up imaging by up to 40%.
Breast Care Center
The Merit Health Wesley Breast Care Center is designed with the patient's comfort in mind.
Breast MRI
Along with mammography, breast MRI can be an effective diagnostic tool. Breast MRI is often used for women who are at greater risk of developing breast cancer or who have dense breast tissue or implants. This technique offers a more comfortable experience for women, and is used to:
- Assess the extent of breast cancer.
- Determine the effectiveness of chemotherapy or radiation during breast cancer treatment.
- Further evaluate abnormalities that were found during a mammogram or clinical exam.
- Provide additional detail for treatment planning.
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.
Screening Recommendation
Merit Health Wesley recommends annual screening mammography for women beginning at age 40.
Women should continue getting annual mammograms as long as they are in good health and are reasonably able to do so.
We encourage women to perform periodic self-breast examinations so they may become aware of changes in the look or feel of their breasts and discuss such changes with their physician.
Women with a family history of breast cancer and/or ovarian cancer may benefit from additional imaging and/or genetic testing and should discuss their history with their providers.
How to Prepare for Your Mammogram
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