Today, I called the place where I go to have my annual Screening
Mammography to make my appointment and was told that they have changed
their procedure. If one has never had bc, they do the Screening Mammo
but for those like myself who have had bc, they must do the Diagnostic
Mammography.
Has anyone here ever had the Diagnostic Mammogram and can tell me how it
is different from the Screening? The rep on the phone just said the
Diagnostic was more precise. Is the actual "squashing of the breasts"
the same?? Just don't want to be hit with any unexpected surprises. I
did a search on the Diagnostic test but could not find any info which
really explained the difference. Thanks for any information you can
provide.
Bea
Sybil2 - 15 Jul 2005 01:44 GMT
webtv.net> wrote in message
news:11532-42D70128-104@storefull-3256.bay.webtv.net...> Today, I called the
place where I go to have my annual Screening
> Mammography to make my appointment and was told that they have changed
> their procedure. If one has never had bc, they do the Screening Mammo
[quoted text clipped - 10 lines]
>
> Bea
A radiologist must be present for a diagnostic mammo. He/she will do an
immediate reading and if additional studies are indicated they are done
right then and there. You should get your results before you leave...no
waiting! The equipment and techniques are exactly the same as with a
screening. Here in Ohio you must have a doctor's perscription to get a
diagnostic mammo. Denise
> Today, I called the place where I go to have my annual Screening
> Mammography to make my appointment and was told that they have changed
[quoted text clipped - 11 lines]
>
> Bea
alex - 15 Jul 2005 02:50 GMT
Denise
Gave you the correct advice, once you have breast cancer, you must have a
diagnostic test. For me it means, I have to take time off from work since it
is only done during business hours. Small price to pay for your health.
> webtv.net> wrote in message
> news:11532-42D70128-104@storefull-3256.bay.webtv.net...> Today, I called
[quoted text clipped - 35 lines]
>>
>> Bea
Annie - 16 Jul 2005 07:24 GMT
Denice,
Where in Ohio are you located? I'm in Ohio as well. I'm just outside
Toledo in Northwest Ohio.
Same here as far as what you posted. I think it helps alot to know
before we leave to go home. I know I feel MUCH better with them doing
it this way. And the "Sybil2" reference? Wouldn't have anything to do
with the movie "Sybil" would it...lol! If that was the ref I truly
understand...this cancer crud makes you crazy....well okay crazier then
I already was before this started here. [4/99] I've got my next
mammogram in Sept. right before I see my bc surgeon again.
Well, anyway...........
Take care there dear/God bless
annie
Sybil2 - 16 Jul 2005 14:23 GMT
Hi Annie, I live in Cincinnati and am a RN who works for a wonderful group
of dedicated breast surgeons (all women). My breast cancer patients are my
heroes and I am humbled by their simple courage and determination....yes,
the sybil2 is from the movie...my husband's little nicname for me when I try
to do a thousand different things at once!!...lol................Denise
> Denice,
> Where in Ohio are you located? I'm in Ohio as well. I'm just outside
[quoted text clipped - 9 lines]
> Take care there dear/God bless
> annie
Annie - 16 Jul 2005 06:28 GMT
Same here. I've got a Rx for mine in Sept. My breast surgeon gives me
the Rx for mine.
I go back to see him the end of Sept, so mine will be done shortly
before that.
I've had them ever since I was dx the first time in 4/99.
The gal that does mine, knowing that I've already had bc, does multiple
views in the begining, so there's less chance of the rad doctor sending
her back to get more. She's always done it that way. Now since I've had
mast in 11/02, she's only having to do the one side. I have the mast
side ultrasounded when I see my breast surgeon.I've had recon [lat
flap/saline implant], so he looks after that side during my check ups.
It doesn't seem any different to me, other then there's more views.
Squishing is still the same..;-) I hope everything goers okay for you.
Take care there/God bless.
annie
Annie - 16 Jul 2005 06:33 GMT
Forgot to mention, that I also know before I leave the hospital that
everythings okay...That helps alot!!.{I was a a born worrier before bc}
I also get a letter a week or so later...but I like the fact I don't
have to sit around "waiting" Plus, the fact I see my bc surgeon every 3
months for ultrasound and breast exam also helps alot as well. These
are what I call my "peace of mind" visits.
I only pay a $20 co-pay when I see him. And it's worth every cent. This
way I know I can continue to go every three months and it's not going
to break the bank here.
Take care there/God bless
annie
Hoosier - 17 Jul 2005 14:43 GMT
Is diagnostic mammogram the same thing as digital mammogram, I am guessing
it is not.
I have to go for a repeat on other breast and I know they said the first was
digital so wondering what this will be. I already had an ultrasound but
they said calcifications do not show up on that. I am pretty down about
prospect of going through this again so soon.
PD
Sybil2 - 17 Jul 2005 15:14 GMT
> Is diagnostic mammogram the same thing as digital mammogram, I am
> guessing
[quoted text clipped - 11 lines]
> the equipment and some don't. Some use a combination of both standard and
> digital. Digital mammos can be screening or diagnostic. Denise
A. P. Thorsen - 18 Jul 2005 18:37 GMT
> Is diagnostic mammogram the same thing as digital mammogram, I am guessing
> it is not.
[quoted text clipped - 3 lines]
> prospect of going through this again so soon.
> PD
It really is tough, especially at first, to be going through test after
test! It's pretty common, though, and could be interpreted as meaning
that your doctors are being very cautious & conservative, to give you
the best care. Although sometimes I call this tendency (to test &
retest) the "doctor vacation fund" <g> . . . .
Be aware that it may possibly be a permanent thing, that you will have
scans or screening tests earlier in any diagnostic scenario, as compared
with someone with similar symptoms who has not had cancer.
Personally, I'm psychologically loopy about these tests: Even if I'm
not worried about the symptoms that led to the test, once the test has
been done, I tend to fret like crazy until the results are in. That's
why I make my GP keep my script for Xanax current, even if I don't take any!
Here's hoping you'll get an all clear on additional tests -- do keep us
posted, OK?
Take care,
Ann T.
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