Mammography

Mammography in Israel is carried out in the Mammary Gland Health Center of the leading private clinic Herzliya Medical Center. Modern medical equipment allows experts to perform mammograms at the highest professional level, and to diagnose the slightest pathological changes in the breast tissue. In addition, the expert radiologist private clinic has vast experience in deciphering the results of mammograms and early detection of breast cancer changes. Herzliya Medical Center uses Hologic 3D Mammography technology -the cutting-edge technology that produces sharp 3D image results compared to regular mammography, with lower radiation doses, as well as minimizing the need to perform biopsies. The Hologic 3D Mammography technology ensures the early detection of breast cancer

Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines

Apart from the self- and clinical breast exams, mammograms form an integral role in the early screening of breast cancer, screening usually aids prognosis if cancer is detected early. Mammography is an X-ray technique that enables specialists to study breast tissue and any structural changes (screening mammography); as well as the study of the breast tissue by the appearance of suspicious signs or symptoms (diagnostic mammography). Diagnostic mammography requires further images than the screening mammography technique.

It is widely used for the diagnosis of pathological processes that are located in deep breast tissue. Mammograms can be used in diagnostics and screening techniques, and are a method of early diagnosis of breast cancer in Israel. Experts advise for a mammogram to be performed in the following situations:

• Breast cancer screening for women above 40 years – routine mammograms (every 1-2 years)
• A clinical or laboratory suspicion of breast cancer
• Family history and/ or positive results of genetic mutations (BRCA 1 and BRCA 2) that increase the risk of developing breast cancer
• Monitor the dynamics of previously diagnosed pathological processes

Preparing For a Mammogram

Three-dimensional mammography in Israel is conducted on an outpatient basis. It is not recommended to carry out the procedure on patients the week before menstruation when their mammary glands are hypersensitive. It is important to avoid the use of deodorants and antiperspirants containing aluminum prior to the procedure. The presence of metal particles in these substances is capable of affecting the interpretation of the images. Prophylactic use of pain medication an hour before the test may be recommended, to prevent pain and discomfort during the test.

The procedure is performed using a special X-ray machine – mammography. During the study, the breast is fixed between two flat surfaces. Moderate pressure will allow the spreading of the mammary gland, improving the quality of radiographic images of complete breast tissue. The Mammary Gland Health Center uses modern mammography techniques that successfully overcome technical difficulties, for example, patients with small or very large breasts. Immediately after the procedure, you can return to a normal lifestyle.

Results of Mammography

The mammary gland is a complex anatomical structure in which there are both physiological and pathological processes. Explanation of the results of mammography requires a professional approach and clinical experience. For the diagnosis of breast cancer in Israel, international standards of mammography breast BIRADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) apply, which differ according to the following changes:

• Normal mammogram – recommended routine clinical and radiological surveillance every 1-2 years
• Benign changes – no need for biopsy, recommended follow-up, specialists will indicate. The lack of changes in the dynamics of growth of benign returns to the routine schedule of follow-up
• Suspected malignant changes – a biopsy is needed and thorough differential diagnosis

Experts’ radiologist private clinic Herzliya Medical Center conducts detailed analyses of mammography results, if necessary; convene a council of Israel’s leading experts in oncology and breast surgery to effectively treat breast cancer. The early diagnosis of breast cancer in Israel, allows for immediate and effective treatment, guaranteeing positive results.