Mammography
Mammography is the gold standard screening examination for the early detection of breast cancer. UnityPoint Clinic Norma Schmoker Imaging Center is committed to providing you with professional, personalized care for all your breast health needs. Contact your doctor to request an order for a mammogram. An order is required before we can schedule your mammogram appointment.
Our team of specialists that includes radiologists, technologists and sonographers is dedicated to providing you with high quality mammography and specialized diagnostic evaluations. The Imaging Center's services are provided in a comfortable setting and are performed by a team committed to making your experience as seamless and efficient as possible.
Specialized Services
Our Imaging Center offers the following services:
- Digital Mammography
- 3D Mammography
- Breast Ultrasound
- Breast Cyst Aspiration
- Breast Core Biopsy
- Galactogram/Ductogram
- Bone Density Scan (DEXA)
3D Mammography (Digital Breast Tomosynthesis)
3D mammography is available at the Norma Schmoker Imaging Center. 3D mammography is much like your annual mammogram but far more accurate in earlier breast cancer detection. 3D works by capturing multiple slices (images) of your breast from several angles. Then, a computer produces a 3D image of your breast tissue in one millimeter slices. Our radiologists can review the data, one slice at a time, like turning pages in a book, making it easier for them to see if there is anything to be concerned about.
What are the benefits of 3D Mammography?
With conventional digital mammography, the radiologist is viewing all of the overlapped tissues of the breast in one flat 2D image. This can, in some instances, give the illusion of an abnormality even though the breast is normal, and can also mask an actual tumor due to superimposed breast structures.
By looking at the breast tissue in one millimeter slices, the radiologist can provide a more accurate assessment. 3D mammography provides a 25 percent improvement in overall cancer detection rates, finding 40 percent more invasive cancers than conventional mammography. It also means there is less chance of you being called back for a "second look" mammogram because of overlapped normal structures. The "false positive" rates are reduced by up to 40 percent.
What should I expect during the 3D Mammography exam?
3D mammography complements the standard 2D exam and is performed at the same time, with the same system. There is no additional compression required and it only takes a few seconds longer for each view.
Is there more radiation?
Very low X-ray energy is used during the exam, just about the same amount as a traditional mammogram done on film.
Who can have a 3D Mammography exam?
It is approved for all women who would be undergoing a standard mammogram, for both screening and diagnostic exams.
What if I choose not to undergo a 3D Mammogram?
A state-of-the-art standard 2D mammogram will be performed.
When should you get a mammogram?
The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms for women starting at age 45. We recommend patients talk to their primary care provider about getting a mammogram at 40.