Mammography — Breast Examination in Israel

Breast tumour diseases and various types of mastopathy currently hold a leading position in the ranking of oncological pathologies among women. Unfortunately, there are many factors influencing the increase in breast cancer incidence. These include smoking, exposure to ionizing and ultraviolet radiation, hormonal imbalance associated with early cessation of lactation, climacteric changes, etc.

Types of Mammographic Examination:

• Preventive Examination. It is recommended to conduct this once or twice a year for all women over 30-35 years old to possibly detect pathological changes in breast tissues. The importance of preventive mammography cannot be overstated, as breast cancer detected at an early stage is completely curable in 90% of cases, which, unfortunately, cannot be said for advanced oncological diseases of the breast.
• Diagnostic Mammography. This is performed when the patient has symptoms such as a lump and pain in the breast, breast deformation, changes in the shape of the nipple and areola, and discharge from the breast not related to lactation.

In addition to classifying mammography based on the purpose of the examination, the following types of this examination are also distinguished:

1. Film Mammography — a classic X-ray examination, the results of which are saved on film. Nowadays, leading world clinics are gradually abandoning film techniques in favor of more modern methods of examination.
2. Digital Mammography. A more modern method where the image of breast tissues is constructed based on data obtained using a special detector. The “picture” is displayed on a monitor, can be enlarged, processed using computer diagnostic programs, and stored in digital form. The results of digital mammography can also be printed on regular X-ray film for comparison with previously obtained images.
3. Computer Mammography. This method can be considered a type of digital examination, the results of which are processed on a computer using special software.

The diagnostic department of Top Ihilov is equipped with modern equipment: digital mammographs, powerful computers that allow obtaining images of the highest quality, studying them in detail, and storing them in a database for an unlimited time.

If necessary, in addition to mammography, the patient will be assigned additional examinations such as:

• Pneumocystography;
• Breast ultrasound;
• Biopsy with subsequent histopathology of breast tissues, etc.

Preparation for the Procedure

Mammography does not require special preparation. The procedure is performed on the 5th to 12th day from the start of the menstrual cycle; before it begins, talc, deodorant, cream, lotion, etc., should not be applied to the underarm and breast area. If the patient has previously undergone an examination, it is better to bring the results of the previous mammography: images or data on any digital media. Also, before the examination begins, it is necessary to inform the doctor about the possibility/existence of pregnancy or lactation at that moment.

How is Mammography Performed?

Mammographs are essentially X-ray machines designed so that the radiation is concentrated only in the area of the breast and does not affect nearby tissues and organs. Before the procedure begins, the assistant helps the patient take the optimal position near the mammograph and places the breast being examined in a special device. During the examination, the breast is subjected to significant compression, but this is necessary to obtain the most accurate, undistorted image.

Mammography After Reconstructive Surgery

Women who have had plastic surgery in the breast area should inform the doctor about previous surgical interventions so that postoperative scars are not mistaken for pathological formations during diagnosis. Patients with implants undergo mammography using a special technique by specially trained medical personnel.

Contraindications for Mammography

Since this method is an X-ray examination, it is natural that contraindications for its conduct are pregnancy and the lactation period. In such cases, mammography may only be prescribed after consultation with the attending physician, who determines whether the risk of the procedure is justified.

Diseases Diagnosed at the Clinic