Screening and Biopsy

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Lutheran Health Network provides mammography, diagnostic imaging and breast biopsy services in convenient locations that work for you.

Screening Mammogram

Lutheran Health Network supports screening mammograms and clinical breast exams every year beginning at age 40. A screening mammogram can help detect breast cancer in its early and most treatable stages. The American Cancer Society recommends women of average risk should begin routine, annual screenings as early as age 40, but no later than age 45. Women ages 20-39 should have a clinical breast exam every one to three years. Women found to be high risk by their healthcare provider may be screened at an earlier age and require additional tests and frequent screenings.

Call Lutheran Hospital Women's Imaging Suite at (833) 546-4968 to schedule your screening mammogram today.

Diagnostic Mammogram, Ultrasound and MRI

Diagnostic mammograms are used to diagnose abnormal breast changes. These may include a lump, pain, nipple thickening or discharge, or a change in breast size or shape. A diagnostic mammogram is also used to check any problems found on a screening mammogram.

A breast ultrasound is most often done to find out if a problem found by a screening mammogram or physical exam of the breast may be a cyst filled with fluid or a solid tumor.

MRI is a test that creates detailed images of organs, bones and other structures inside your body. An MRI uses large magnets and a computer to make the images. It does not use radiation.

An MRI scanner is a large machine with a tunnel. Patients lie on a table that slides in and out of the tunnel. For a breast MRI, a woman lies face down with her breasts positioned through holes in a table.

Biopsy

Based on the results of an imaging study, the radiologist may recommend a core biopsy. This minimally invasive procedure uses imaging to guide a needle or probe to a specific area of the breast. A small tissue sample is then removed from the breast and sent to the lab for testing. Results are typically available within two to three working days.

High-Risk Breast Cancer Assessment

During your annual mammogram, you will be asked to provide detailed information about your personal and family history of cancer. This information will tell the team if you would benefit from the free education and assessment provided by the new cancer risk program.

Some Warning Signs of Hereditary Breast Cancer

A personal or family history of:

• Ovarian or fallopian tube cancer at any age
• Breast cancer at age 50 or younger
• More than one breast cancer diagnosis
• More than one family member on the same side of the family has had:
  • Breast cancer
  • Ovarian or fallopian tube cancer
  • Prostate cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer

The American Cancer Society recommends annual breast MRI in addition to mammography for women who have a mutation in certain genes or women who have a lifetime risk for breast cancer of 20-25 percent or greater.

The Lutheran Comprehensive Breast Center provides a complimentary breast cancer risk assessment to help define your personal risk for the disease and to provide you with a personalized plan of care.

The risk assessment process and genetic testing will be used to develop a personal risk profile:

• If you are at average risk, you will continue annual screening mammograms.
• If you are at increased risk, a personalized care plan will be provided for you that may include additional screening.

Call (260) 435-7377 to schedule your screening mammogram.