How is a mammogram performed?
Aug 03, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Mammography is a commonly used diagnostic method in breast surgery. A mammography machine is an imaging device that uses X-rays and a molybdenum target to visualize breast glandular tissue. During the examination, the patient stands facing the machine, and both breasts are positioned between the compression plates of the mammography unit. X-ray exposure is then performed, capturing radiographic images of the breasts after irradiation with molybdenum-target X-rays for diagnosis of breast diseases.
Mammography is primarily used for diagnosing breast masses. If a breast ultrasound reveals a suspicious mass with a high BI-RADS classification, mammography may be performed to further assess the general nature of the breast lesion. So, how is mammography performed?
How Is Mammography Performed?
Mammography is a commonly used diagnostic tool in breast surgery. A mammography machine utilizes X-rays and a molybdenum target to produce radiographic images of the breast glandular tissue. During the procedure, the patient stands facing the machine, and each breast is positioned between two compression plates (the “mammography paddle”) — one placed against the chest wall and the other against the breast surface. Gentle compression is applied to spread out the breast tissue evenly, followed by brief X-ray exposure to capture high-resolution images. The entire examination typically takes less than five minutes, and patients are required to remove their upper clothing to fully expose the breasts.
Currently, mammography and breast ultrasound are considered complementary “gold-standard” modalities for evaluating breast lesions. Mammography holds significant diagnostic value for detecting and characterizing various breast conditions—including fibrocystic changes, fibroadenomas, cysts, and breast cancer—especially for early-stage disease detection.
Mammography has unique diagnostic utility for calcification-only breast cancers. Approximately 25% of breast cancers manifest solely as microcalcifications, which can be reliably identified only via mammography. Based on the findings, physicians formulate individualized treatment plans. We hope this information is helpful to you!
