Breast Imaging

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To schedule a mammogram, breast ultrasound or other breast imaging, call (844) 865-7459.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. Northwest Health - La Porte provides helpful services to educate women on breast health, and encourage self-exams and routine screenings. We utilize imaging technology that may detect breast cancer at the earliest stages, when treatment can be most effective. The combination of caring technologists and imaging technology allows us to deliver quality care.

For women of average risk of breast cancer, the American College of Radiology recommends annual mammograms starting at age 40. Different guidelines apply to women at higher risk. A screening mammogram can help detect breast cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages. For a list of risk factors and American College of Radiology recommendations, visit acr.org.

Digital Mammography
Mammography is an X-ray exam of the breasts used to screen for or diagnose breast cancer. Northwest Health - La Porte offers digital imaging technology for mammograms. With digital technology, radiologists can zoom in on particular areas or change brightness or contrast for even greater visibility, and results can be read immediately. It offers numerous benefits to women, including:

• Improved accuracy of screening exams, especially for women with dense breast tissue.
• Less radiation exposure.
• Greater image quality, reducing the need for repeat exams.

3D Mammography (Tomosynthesis)
Proven to increase the detection rate of early breast cancer, and particularly helpful for women with dense breasts, 3D mammography is a revolutionary screening and diagnostic tool that can be done in conjunction with a traditional 2D digital mammogram. With the 3D part of the exam, the X-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple images. Then, a computer produces a 3D image of the breast tissue in one millimeter slices, providing greater visibility for the radiologist to see breast detail in a way never before possible.

Breast MRI
Along with mammography, breast MRI can be an effective diagnostic tool. Breast MRI is often used for women who are at greater risk of developing breast cancer or who have dense breast tissue or implants - cases in which mammography is less effective at detecting abnormalities. This technique offers a more comfortable experience for women, and is used to:

• Assess the extent of breast cancer.
• Determine the effectiveness of chemotherapy or radiation therapy during breast cancer treatment.
• Further evaluate abnormalities that were found during a mammogram or clinical exam.
• Provide additional detail for treatment planning.

Breast Ultrasound (Sonography)
A breast ultrasound is often used to further evaluate an abnormality found during a mammogram. Ultrasound allows doctors to see the area closest to the chest wall, which can be difficult to see using mammography. This technology also helps doctors determine whether a breast lump is filled with fluid (a cyst) or is a solid mass.

Breast Biopsies
When a lump or abnormal area is detected during screening, a biopsy can determine whether cells are cancerous. Advanced imaging technology - such as MRI, mammography or ultrasound - can be combined with minimally invasive techniques to obtain tissue samples. Northwest Health - La Porte offers digital stereotactic biopsies, and women can choose to be seated or lying down during the procedure for maximum comfort.

Learn more about the breast care services offered at Northwest Health - La Porte.

We offer breast imaging at two convenient locations.

Lifeworks Campus
3777 Frontage Rd
Michigan City, IN
For an appointment, call (844) 865-7459.

Northwest Health - La Porte
1007 Lincolnway
La Porte, IN
For an appointment, call (844) 865-7459