Early detection is the key to surviving breast cancer.  Performing a self-exam and getting a routine mammogram are widely accepted as the most effective methods of detecting breast malignancies.
 

The Exam
The Mammography equipment used in this procedure emits small doses of radiation to produce an
x-ray.  These images enable the Radiologist to identify abnormalities in the breast tissue.

 Before this exam is performed, the technologist will make sure you are not wearing any deodorants, lotions, perfumes or body powder.  These substances can cause misleading information on the film or cause the breast tissue to slip under compression, blurring the images.  The technologist will provide you with a gown and ask you to undress from the waist up. She will ask several questions about your family and your personal health history.  In turn, you may also have questions to ask the technologist. Once your exam has begun, it is important to follow your technologist’s instructions. 

Films will be taken of each breast and reviewed for proper positioning.  To obtain quality images for interpretation, the breast tissue will need to be compressed and this may cause some discomfort.  If the Radiologist needs to see an area more closely, you will need to come back for additional views of that particular side.

Hours of Operation
The department provides services Monday through Friday from 8:00am until 5:00pm.

Scheduling
Patients can schedule mammograms (with a physician’s order) by calling 907-714-4420, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm.

Screening mammograms can be performed at either the hospital or at the Kenai Health Center.  The results can only be read at the hospital.