Diagnostic Breast Procedures

DIGITAL MAMMOGRAM

The Florida Breast Institute provides digital mammograms.  A digital screening mammogram is conducted the same way as a traditional film-based mammogram, taking two views of each compressed breast. 

The benefits of digital mammography:

• Digital mammography allows the radiologist to review your test on a computer screen
• High image quality with the ability to enhance and manipulate the image for further evaluation.
• High quality image makes it easier to differentiate cancer tissue from normal tissue
• Digital mammography is ideal in detecting breast abnormalities in women under 50 or women with dense breast tissue, who are often at higher risk for breast cancer.
• The images can be magnified to better visualize calcifications
• Digital images are obtained with up to 60% less radiation exposure to the woman than film images.
• Digital mammography is faster so the mammogram exam is shorter.
• Digital images can be stored permanently, with the ability to print on film.

BREAST BIOPSIES

These minimally invasive procedures are recommended and performed when an area of breast tissue is suspicious for malignancy or is different from a previous mammogram. There are two different types of biopsies performed at the Florida Breast Institute:

• Stereotactic biopsy
• Ultrasound core biopsy

In both procedures, a small tissue sample of the suspicious area is taken to determine if cancer is present.

If diagnostic imaging shows a need for biopsy, we will assist you in making an appointment with one of our breast care surgical specialists. These surgeons have committed to seeing patients of the Florida Breast Institute within 48 hours of receiving an appointment request.

BREAST ULTRASOUND

This diagnostic procedure studies a specific area found on the mammogram or on a lump discovered by the woman. This exam can determine the difference between a cystic or solid mass. Breast ultrasounds are used in conjunction with a mammogram. Due to their limited scope, they cannot be used as a replacement for a mammogram.

BREAST MRI

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) procedure involves the use of a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to produce two-dimensional and three-dimensional pictures of the inside of the body. MRI of the breast is used to supplement mammography to detect breast cancer and other abnormalities of the breast. There is evidence that breast MRI can detect some lesions that may be missed by mammography.

BONE DENSITOMETRY

Osteoporosis is a disease that depletes the minerals from our bones, making them brittle, weak and easy to break. Subtle changes in bone mineral density can be easily detected with a bone densitometry scan. A bone densitometry scan provides a safe, non-invasive window to the skeleton. Low dose X-rays are used to produce a computerized scan.  The scan is quick, easy and painless. Your physician reviews the results of this diagnostic test to determine what steps, if any, are necessary to treat bone loss.

COMPUTER-ASSISTED DETECTION

Our radiologists evaluate your digital mammogram with the aid of Computer Assisted Detection (CAD) software. This special system increases the accuracy of their evaluation of your mammogram to see if there are any abnormalities that may need additional imaging studies or biopsy.