Women's Imaging Center
Emory Crawford Long Hospital Radiology has a comprehensive breast imaging center that focuses on diagnosis and treatment of breast diseases. Currently, the Women's Center includes four mammography suites, four ultrasound rooms, a stereotactic biopsy unit and a bone densitometer.<
The Women's Imaging offers the expertise of board-certified radiologists experienced in mammography and breast procedures. The radiologist communicates closely with you and your referring physicians concerning your results, management, treatment and follow-up. Return to Services
Hours of operation
Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
To schedule an appointment, please call 404-686-XRAY (404-686-9729).
Services:
Mammography
Mammography is an x-ray exam of the breasts used to detect early breast cancers. While under compression the breasts are imaged in multiple planes. The compression is uncomfortabe but lasts for only a few seconds. Compression of the breasts helps to show subtle abnormalities and decreases the dose of radiation to the breasts.
Digital Mammography
Digital mammography is the newest form of mammographic imaging. With digital mammography images are acquired, displayed, and stored electronically, which allows the radiologist to manipulate the image. This helps to decrease the number of patients who are called back for additional or repeat images.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA Scan)
Bone desitometry is an examination that detects early bone loss, typically in the spine or hip, by measuring bone mineral density with a low dose of radiation. The x-ray is composed of two energy levels, which are absorbed differently by the bones of the body. A computer determines the bone density based on the x-ray absorption. The procedure is painless and takes fifteen minutes.
Breast Ultrasound
Breast ultrasound uses soundwaves to create images of the internal structures of the breast. Breast ultrasound is performed in conjunction with mammography and is often used to determine whether lesions in the breast are cystic or solid. Ultrasound can also be used to localize breast lesions if biopsy is necessary. Although breast ultrasound is an excellent focused breast exam, it is not appropriate for screening and cannot be substituted for mammography.
Cyst Aspiration
Usually diagnosed with ultrasound, cysts are fluid collections in the breast. Occassionally, if a cyst is very large or painful, aspiration of the cyst is requested. Following administration of local anesthesia a small needle is used to drain fluid from the cyst. The procedure takes about 10 minutes.
Ductogram (Galactogram)
Ductogram is used to evaluate certain types of nipple discharge. The duct producing the discharge is identified. A very tiny catheter is inserted into the duct and contrast is infused into the duct. The contrast helps to identify abnormalities within the duct. Mammographic images of the duct are then obtained. The procedure takes thirty to sixty minutes.
Needle Localization
Needle localization is performed prior to breast surgery. It is necessary when the surgeon is unable to feel the breast abnormality. Needle localization can be performed using either mammographic guidance or ultrasound guidance. A small needle is placed into the area of abnormality. After the radiologist is certain that the needle is in the correct position, a wire is placed through the needle. Mammographic images are then obtained and sent to the operating room with the patient.
Stereotactic Core Biopsy
Stereotactic core biopsy is used to sample abnormal tissue identified on a mammogram. The outpatient procedure is a less invasive alternative to surgery. The patient lies on her stomach on the stereotactic table. Computer imaging is used to target the abnormal area in the breast. During the procedure the breast is compressed similar to a mammogram. Following local anesthesia a small nick is made in the skin of the breast and a needle is inserted to obtain multiple samples of breast tissue for laboratory analysis. The entire procedure takes between thirty to forty minutes. After the procedure, ice is applied to the biopsy site to reduce bruising. Patients can drive themselves home or return to work. Results are usually available one to two days following the procedure. If results are benign, follow-up mammographic imaging is generally performed six months after the biopsy. If results are suspicious, surgery may be recommended to remove additional tissue.
Utrasound-Guided Core Biopsy
Ultrasound-guided core biopsy is another method of sampling abnormal breast tissue. The patient lies on her back and the abnormal breast tissue is identified with ultrasoud imaging. Following the adminstration of local anesthesia a small needle is placed in the abnormal tissue and several sample of tissue are removed and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The procedure usually takes between 30 to 45 minutes.
(back to top)
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) has emerged as a safe, effective way to treat symptomatic fibroid tumors in pre and postmenopausal women. Fibroids are benign tumors that originate from the uterus; located either within the wall of the uterus, the inside or the outside of the uterus. Visit www.emoryhealthcare.org/ufe to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is a special type of x-ray imaging exam used to create detailed images of the breast. Mammography uses low dose x-ray; high contrast, high-resolution film; and an x-ray system designed specifically for imaging the breasts. Mammography plays a major role in early detection of breast cancers, which in turn, increases the chances of successful treatment and survival.
Why is mammography sometimes uncomfortable
The quality of your mammogram is greatly dependent on compression of the breast, which may sometimes cause brief discomfort. Compression decreases breast motion that can cause blurry images and flattens the breast so that all of the tissue can be visualized in the image. The total x-ray dose to the breast is also greatly reduced by good breast compression. If you feel discomfort during your exam, please inform your technologist.
How often should I have a mammogram?
Beginning at age 40, women should have a mammogram every year. Patients at high risk of breast cancer, especially those with a strong family history of breast cancer, should consult their doctor about beginning annual mammograms prior to age 40.
Do I need an order for a yearly screening exam?
You can get an order for the mammogram from your primary care provider or book it yourself at your mammography center. It is important to go to the same center every time, since the old films are available there and direct comparison is essential for accurate diagnosis.
What should I do if I am having a problem with my breasts?
You should first contact your primary care provider who can provide you with an order for a diagnostic mammogram or you may call our breast health specialist at 404-778-PINK to discuss your concerns.
(back to top)
|
