Where do I go?
Please report to the Duke Medicine Plaza at 3480 Wake Forest Rd., suite 100.
What can I expect at my appointment?
During your mammography procedure, our mammography technologist will place your breast on the mammography machine. Once positioned, the breast will be compressed with a special compression “paddle” to spread out the breast tissue.
Compression is an important part of the mammography procedure as it allows the radiologist to get a better look at the tissue so that we can potentially detect any new abnormality that might otherwise be hidden.
The exam consists of images from different angles. Your technologist will instruct you on how you can help with positioning and what to do during the exposure or x-ray.
The mammography technologist will need to review your images to ensure that we have good images.
We have installed the iCAD Computer Aided Detection Image Checker System at Duke Raleigh Hospital, this systems helps the radiologist see abnormalities in your breast tissue.
Do I need to do anything to prepare?
If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms with your breast, you should discuss these symptoms with your primary care doctor. Please obtain prior mammograms and bring them with you to your appointment.
On the day of your exam please do not wear any bath powder, deodorant, or perfume on or around your breast tissue.
What should I tell the technologist?
You should let the technologist know if you are or may be pregnant. Describe any breast symptoms or problems to the mammography technologist.
We will need to know of any prior surgeries, hormone use, and family history of breast cancer.
How will I get the results?
Your physician will receive a detailed report from one of our radiologists. A letter will be mailed to you containing the final reading of your exam. If you have any questions concerning the letter, please call your referring physician.
A delay in your report can occur if we do not have prior mammograms at your appointment.
