LH_IMAGING_BANNER_945x160

Mammography

Legacy Cancer Institute recommends annual screening mammograms for all women starting at age 40, because nearly one quarter of our breast cancer patients are younger than 50.

Having a mammogram does not have be intimidating. At Legacy's private, comfortable mammogram locations, our experienced breast health team combines the latest medical advances with a true personal touch. You'll receive the best of care, both physical and emotional.

 

Mammogram services at all Legacy sites are accredited for excellence by the American College of Radiology, which means that our services meet the highest national standards.

 

  • "The best way to beat breast cancer is to find it early, and a mammogram is the gold standard for that."

    - Nathalie Johnson, M.D., breast cancer surgeon
    Medical Director, Legacy Cancer Institute

    nathalie johnson

What is mammography?

Mammography is X-ray imaging of the breasts to check for suspicious tissue. We offer digital mammography, for the quickest and most accurate results with the lowest level of radiation. 3-D mammography reveals even more, so more cancers are caught earlier. And, there's less chance of receiving a call back for a second scan. Legacy Breast Health Center-Good Samaritan screens all patients using 3-D mammography. For a mammogram in 3-D, call 503-413-8114.

If additional screening is needed, we use the advanced, non-invasive technologies of Breast Specific Gamma Imaging (BSGI), MRI and Ultrasound. 

Accurate reading of your results

Your results will be read by a board-certified radiologist who's an expert in reading mammograms. We'll send your results to your primary care doctor, and of course we will notify you.

If you need additional screening, we'll help you set another appointment as soon as possible, and you'll receive those results the same or the next day.

What can I expect?

During your mammogram you'll be asked to stand and place one breast at a time on the flat X-ray plate. A small amount of compression is used to help flatten out the breast tissue for the best imaging. A screening mammography takes 20 minutes and a diagnostic mammography takes 30 minutes.

How often should I get a mammogram?

Legacy supports the American Cancer Society guidelines for early breast cancer detection, with annual mammograms starting at age 40. See our recommendation. 

How will it feel?

The compression only takes a few seconds, but can be uncomfortable if you have tender breasts. The scan itself causes no sensation, and there is no recovery time.

How should I prepare?

  • On the day of the exam do not use any deodorant, perfume, powders or ointments under your arms or on your breasts. These may show up as an abnormality on the film.
  • Wearing a two-part outfit will be more convenient for you, so that you'll only have to undress from the waist up.

 Learn more: