The Next Generation of Breast Cancer Detection – Now Available at Randwick
A Contrast Enhanced Mammogram (CEM) is similar to having a conventional mammogram but with the addition of a contrast enhancing IV dye containing iodine (the same dye as used in CT scans) to make it easier to characterise breast abnormalities and detect cancers that may not be visible in a standard mammogram. A doctor may refer you for a Contrast Enhanced Mammogram if you are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer, have dense breast tissue, or as an alternative to MRI.
Synergy Radiology offers you our expert care by compassionate female radiographers. Our mammography room is designed for comfort and privacy to make the procedure as relaxing as possible.
What to Expect
Preparing for your Contrast Enhanced Mammogram
Please bring your referral (letter from your doctor) and your Medicare and/or Pension Health care card to your appointment. Bring all previous mammograms and reports along with you. Please be on time to ensure that there is enough time available to perform the procedure.
It is recommended that you wear two-piece clothing. Some toiletries can produce unusual appearances on the films, so please do not use deodorant or talcum powder on the day of your mammogram.
Please fast from solid food for 3 hours prior to your scan, and remain well hydrated.
Please inform the radiographer prior to the examination if you are, or if you suspect you may be pregnant.
Scanning
As a contrast enhanced mammogram involves that the patient be injected with an IV contrast enhancing dye, patients must complete a consent form on the day of their appointment. Some people may have an allergy to the contrast enhancing dye. If you have had a reaction before, please let us know in advance. In some select cases, pre medications can be given to reduce the risk of a reaction.
To begin your appointment, the radiographer will insert an intravenous (IV) line in your arm to administer the IV contrast enhancing dye. 2-3 minutes after you receive the dye, you will have your CEM exam.
In order to obtain a clear image your breasts will need to be compressed for a few seconds. This can cause some discomfort, but is essential to obtain clear images. The discomfort is momentary and is generally well tolerated.
Views are taken from two angles to ensure complete coverage of both breasts. The images are then reviewed by a radiologist. It is not uncommon to need further views. Although each image takes only a moment, the whole procedure can take 15 to 20 minutes to complete. Your mammograms will also need to be compared with any previous mammograms. This comparison is an extremely important component of the test so please remember to bring previous mammograms with you.
Often a mammogram is supplemented by a breast ultrasound examination. This will be used to obtain more information and prevent a delay in diagnosis.
Results
We understand that some patients are anxious about having tests performed. If you do have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask our staff.
Synergy Radiology strongly advises that you return to your referring doctor for them to discuss your radiology report with you.
FAQs
Why take a Contrast Enhanced Mammogram over a conventional Mammogram?
Contrast Enhanced Mammography allows clinicians to see certain lesions and abnormalities that conventional mammography cannot detect – especially in patients at increased risk of breast cancer or who have dense breasts or implants.
What are the risks of Contrast Enhanced Mammography?
There is a slight risk of an allergic reaction to Iodinated Contrast. This is extremely rare and our staff are well equipped to deal with any outcome.
Will I need to have other imaging or testing with Contrast Enhanced Mammography?
Just like with a regular mammogram, you may need to have additional tests to evaluate your exam findings. If required these will be recommended in the radiology report to your doctor.
Does my Contrast Enhanced Mammography appointment take longer than a regular mammogram?
Yes – a CEM exam takes approximately 15 minutes longer than a standard mammogram to complete.
Is there anything I should be aware of following completion of the appointment?
Drink plenty of water in the 24 hours after your appointment to help remove the contrast enhancing dye from your body.
Will my mammogram itself be painful?
In the few seconds in which the breasts are compressed you may experience some discomfort. If you have any questions or concerns please speak to the radiographer on the day
Can I have a mammogram if I am breastfeeding?
A mammogram is not contraindicated if you are breastfeeding but may cause slightly more discomfort. Expressing or feeding before your mammogram is recommended for your comfort.
Can I have a mammogram if I have implants?
Yes, mammography is generally safe for women with implants.
There is an extremely small chance that the pressure placed on the implant by the mammography machine could cause the implants to rupture or break. Our staff are highly trained in performing mammograms on patients with implants.
It is important to notify reception when booking in your mammogram that you have implants. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Why do I need an ultrasound as well as a mammogram?
Often a mammogram is supplemented by a breast ultrasound examination. This will be used to obtain more information and prevent a delay in diagnosis.
Is a female performing my mammogram?
Yes. One of our highly trained and compassionate female radiographers will be performing the mammogram in a comfortable and private room.
What if a lump is found?
Depending on the results of your test your doctor may ask for a biopsy. This can be performed using either ultrasound or mammogram. Your referring doctor and the radiologist will decide on the most appropriate imaging technique to target the area of interest in the breast. At Synergy Radiology, our radiologists and technical staff are experienced in breast biopsy, with the procedure generally well tolerated. For more information on biopsies please see Image Guided Biopsy.
Will the radiographer performing my scan tell me what’s wrong?
It is the radiographer’s duty to perform the test and ensure the images are of high quality for the radiologist (specialist) to interpret them.
Do you provide bulk billing services for mammograms and 3D mammograms?
We do for those who are eligible for Medicare rebates.
