Mammography

Mammograms in Albuquerque

Here at RAA/High Resolution we provide you with exceptional care and a beautiful relaxing environment to get your Mammogram done. If you are a woman 40 years or older it is recommended that you have a yearly mammogram. Your insurance will cover the cost of the exam as long as it has been 365 days since your last appointment. You can self refer for a mammogram as well which means that you do not need to see your doctor if you would like to come in and get the exam done. Just call 505-332-6967 and we can get you scheduled at one of our facilities.

What is a Mammogram?

A Mammogram is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts. A mammogram is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.

TYPES OF MAMMOGRAMS

Screening Mammogram
Screening mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast cancers because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them. Current guidelines from the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend screening mammography every year for women, beginning at age 40. Annual screening without copay is generally covered by insurance plans due to the Affordable Care Act. Research has shown that annual mammograms lead to early detection of breast cancers, when they are most curable and breast-conservation therapies are available. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) adds that women who have had breast cancer and those who are at increased risk due to a genetic history of breast cancer should seek expert medical advice about whether they should begin screening before age 40.

Digital Mammogram
Digital mammogram is a mammography system in which the x-ray film is replaced by solid-state detectors that convert x-rays into electrical signals. These detectors are similar to those found in digital cameras. The electrical signals are used to produce images of the breast that can be seen on a computer screen or printed on special film similar to conventional mammograms. From the patient’s point of view, having a digital mammogram is essentially the same as having a conventional film mammogram.

Computer-aided detection (CAD)
Computer-aided detection (CAD) systems use a digitized mammographic image that can be obtained from either a conventional film mammogram or a digitally acquired mammogram. The computer software then searches for abnormal areas of density, mass, or calcification that may indicate the presence of cancer. The CAD system highlights these areas on the images, alerting the radiologist to the need for further analysis.

Diagnostic Mammogram
Diagnostic mammography is used to evaluate a patient with abnormal clinical findings—such as a breast lump or lumps—that have been found by the woman or her doctor. Diagnostic mammography may also be done after an abnormal screening mammogram in order to evaluate the area of concern on the screening exam.