The Women's Center Imaging
The Women's Center Imaging Department offers Screening and Diagnostic Mammography, as well as Bone Densitometry Studies. Screening Mammography can be performed without a prescription, after 35 years of age. Diagnostic Mammograms are performed when the patient has clinical findings that would necessitate a more thorough workup, such as a lump in the breast. These exams require a prescription from the physician. Stereotactic Breast biopsies are also performed. The Ultrasound Department performs general diagnostic ultrasound exams, specializing in advanced obstetrical studies, such as Level 3 OB ultrasounds, as well as exams involving neonatal and fetal anatomy.

Procedures

Screening Mammogram: The technologist will position your breast in the mammography unit. Your breast will placed on a special platform and compressed with a paddle (often made of clear Plexiglas or other plastic).
Diagnostic Mammogram: A diagnostic mammogram is an x-ray exam of the breast in a woman who either has a breast complaint (for example, a breast mass, nipple discharge, etc.) or has had an abnormality found during a screening mammogram. During a diagnostic mammogram, more pictures are taken to carefully study the breast condition.
Bone Densitometry Studies: This exam uses low dose X-ray (DEXA) to determine a woman's bone density. The bone density value is then used as a predictor of bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture.
Stereotactic Breast Biopsies: The first step is to clean the skin and inject a local anesthetic. A small nick is made in the skin and the tip of the biopsy needle is advanced to the previously calculated site of the lesion. At this point stereo images are again obtained to confirm that the needle tip is actually within the lesion. A tissue sample can then be obtained.
Needle Localization: Includes localizing a specific area in the breast to help the surgeon remove diseased or questionable tissue.
Breast Ultrasound: The ultrasound camera is moved over the skin to examine the right and/or left breast for an obvious lump or to follow a mammogram.
Bone Densitometry (also called DEXA, X-ray Bone Densitometry): Measurements are taken of a set of points plotted on an image of the female hip.
Pelvic: The ultrasound camera is moved over the skin to examine female organs. (This requires a full bladder)
Pelvic Transvaginal GYN (Internal Exam): The ultrasound camera is placed inside the vagina to examine female organs.
Pelvic Transvaginal OB (Internal Exam): The ultrasound camera is placed into the vagina to examine the fetus.
Pelvic OB before 14 weeks: The ultrasound camera is moved over the skin to examine the fetus in the lower belly. (This requires a full bladder)
Pelvic OB after 14 weeks: The ultrasound camera is moved over the skin to examine the fetus in the lower belly. (This requires a full bladder)
Level II Ultrasound: A more extensive and comprehensive OB Ultrasound. This includes fetal echo, biophysical profile and amniocentesis.
Neonatal (Baby) Head and Lower Extremity
Abdominal Ultrasound: The ultrasound camera is moved over the skin to examine the liver, the gallbladder and/or abdominal organs.