Breast Imaging

The Breast Imaging Department forms part of the wider HYGEIA Hospital Imaging Department. It is equipped with a latest technology digital mammography unit, ensuring top-quality imaging. The Department’s medical and auxiliary staff are fully trained and qualified in breast conditions, with long experience in the field.

The Department performs digital breast scans both for screening purposes and for diagnosis, as part of resolving clinical breast findings.

The diagnosis is performed by a radiologist specializing in breast imaging, who evaluates the scans immediately, investigates any findings that may arise and informs the patients of their test results.

The Department is equipped with a latest generation mammography unit with detector, the GE flat panel Seno Essential.

This unit offers the radiologist the option of storing and processing the digital images. Both the digital images and the medical opinions are stored electronically and the results are available at all times for comparative analysis.

Mammography is an imaging technique that uses low-energy X-rays to provide images of the breast. The exam can be performed on women and, exceptionally, on men and lasts 15 to 20 minutes in total.

Digital Mammography

High-definition images are produced using digital technology and offering the possibility of detecting cancerous lesions much smaller than clinically perceptible. Therefore, breast cancer can be diagnosed at a very early stage.

Benefits of digital over analog mammography

Radiation dose is reduced by 45% to 75%, depending on breast density and level of compression.
Option of processing and storing the images, so that they may be studied in depth with better resolution and the findings may be visualized in detail for more reliable results.
Especially beneficial for older women
More easily tolerated.
Faster and more accurate

Mammography as a Screening Tool

Screening mammography is performed when there are no symptoms. Two images per breast are obtained. It lasts a few seconds, it is painless and it requires a very low radiation dose.

Diagnostic Mammography

It is performed when there are indications or symptoms, such as:

Nodules
Pain
Change in skin color
Change in size or shape of breast
Nipple inversion or discharge
Personal history of breast cancer
Personal history of benign disease diagnosed through biopsy or history of suspect lesion
Large breasts or breasts with implants that cannot be easily examined clinically

When should a woman undergo a mammography

Instructions about undergoing a breast scan

Preparing for your breast scan

On the day of the exam:

After your daily personal hygiene routine, do not use deodorants, cosmetics and perfume close to the area of the breast and the armpits
Wear comfortable clothes that can be easily removed e.g. a shirt
Bring along any previous breast scans and diagnoses that may have been performed in another center for comparison