A breast care program complete with mammography, a physician breast exam, and your own self-exam is essential for early detection and effective treatment. When detected early, breast cancer is usually curable.

Mammography, a low-dose X-ray of the breast, can detect cancers months and sometimes years before they can be detected by a physical exam. Breast cancers found that early are almost always curable, and surgery may be minimized. The Breast Center at Fort Sanders West Diagnostic Center makes it safer and less time-consuming to have a mammogram. You will be seen in a private and comfortable setting by specially-trained, registered, and certified mammography technologists who are deeply aware of your concerns.

Your mammogram is interpreted by radiologists from Vista Radiology, P.C., active in mammography since 1967. A radiologist is available to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.

We realize that some breast patients are reluctant to have a mammogram for a variety of reasons. However, a properly performed mammogram is not an unpleasant experience, and our caring, professional staff will relieve any anxiety you may have.

Digital Mammography at The Breast Center at Fort Sanders West
Mammography patients at The Breast Center at Fort Sanders West can relax knowing that their mammogram will be administered using the very latest technology: digital mammography. The Breast Center at Fort Sanders West digital mammography system, the Senographe Essential, is designed to deliver the most comfortable patient experience and produce outstanding image quality. With a patient friendly-design, effortless wheelchair access, and flex paddles that shape to the breast, the Senographe Essential mammography system not only offers outstanding image quality but also offers a computer aided detection (CAD) system that identifies calcifications and densities in the breast to assist the radiologist in the interpretation of your digital mammogram. The digital mammography image is available to be read within 10 seconds. The image can be sent electronically to be viewed by your physician as well.

Scheduling your mammogram
Most insurance companies require at least "1" year and "1" day between appointments for screening or routine mammograms. You may schedule your own mammogram. Screening mammograms are scheduled 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Diagnostic mammograms are scheduled in the afternoon between 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. For screening mammograms, patients will be called with their report later that day. Diagnostic mammogram results are discussed with the patient at the time of the appointment. Most exams are completed in 30 minutes or less. To schedule your appointment, call Fort Sanders West Diagnostic Center at 865-531-5400.

Preparing for your mammogram
Preparing for a mammogram examination is easy. On the day of your exam, you may be asked to remove deodorant from underneath your arms. Wear a two-piece outfit so you may disrobe from the waist up. Gowns will be provided. You may also call Fort Sanders West Diagnostic Center at 865-531-5400 if you still have questions.

American Cancer Society Recommendations

• Women 35-39 should have one mammogram as a baseline.
• Women 40 and above should have one yearly

How to Examine Your Breast
Click here for a comprehensive guide to breast self-examination.