Breast health

Breast screening and imaging in Walterboro, South Carolina

Being proactive about your breast health is a vital part of preventing and effectively treating chronic diseases, such as cancer. At Colleton Medical Center, we use advanced imaging techniques, modern diagnostic methods and comprehensive treatment options to address changes in breast tissue.

Breast cancer prevention

When it comes to breast cancer, early detection is key to treatment and survival. We use advanced imaging to find breast cancer early, even before it can be felt. If you require treatment, we combine the full spectrum of options with specialized expertise and compassion. 

Our breast health services include:

• 3D mammography
• Advanced radiology
• Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Breast ultrasound
• General and breast surgery
• Needle localization
• Screening and diagnostic digital mammography
• Ultrasound core biopsy
• Breast cancer risk assessment 

Breast Cancer Risk Assessment

Understanding your risk for developing breast cancer can play an important role in prevention. We offer a free tool to help you identify your risk factors for developing breast cancer and pinpoint steps you can take to safeguard your health.

 Breast Cancer Risk Assessment

3D mammography

Colleton Medical Center offers 3D mammography. This technique captures multiple segments of your breast from different angles, creating a layered 3D image. This is similar to a traditional 2D mammogram but can be more accurate in detecting breast cancer early.

Benefits of 3D mammography include:

• Produces a clearer lesion image
• Reduces the number of unnecessary biopsies, minimizing patient anxiety and unnecessary costs
• Significantly increases early breast cancer detection 

We recommend 3D mammography for patients who have:

• Breast cancer or a family history of cancer
• Dense breast tissue
• Previous mammograms with ambiguous or inconclusive results
• Undergone biopsies for suspicious masses or lesions in the past 

Depending on your insurance coverage, additional fees may apply. You will be informed about any fees that are the patient's responsibility when checking in for your appointment. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mammogram?

Mammography uses low-dose X-rays to take pictures of the tissue inside the breast. The resulting image is called a mammogram.

This process enables us to screen for and diagnose changes in breast tissue, which aids in the early detection of breast cancer and improves chances of successful treatment. No diagnostic tests are necessary before a mammogram, although monthly self-exams and yearly breast exams by your regular practitioner are recommended. 

Who should schedule a mammogram?

For patients 40 years old and older, mammograms should be performed every year. You may need to schedule annual mammograms sooner if you have a family history of breast cancer (especially breast cancer before menopause) or have had previous biopsies. 

What are the benefits of a mammogram?

Scheduling a mammogram each year:

• Aids in the early detection of cancer, which improves patients' chances of successful treatment
• Can help doctors identify a lump’s location before a biopsy or surgery
• Can help doctors identify abnormalities before a lump can be felt
• Provides the only reliable method of locating abnormal growths in the milk ducts 

How can you prepare for a mammogram?

Knowing what to expect before, during and after the mammogram can help you prepare for the imaging appointment and your test results. It's a good practice to schedule a mammogram when breast tissue is least tender (typically a week after your menstrual cycle). Some women report less discomfort if they avoid caffeinated beverages and take vitamin E, as recommended by their doctor. If you have breast implants, ask if the facility uses special techniques to accommodate implants.

The day of your mammogram

On the day of your mammogram, your doctor may recommend that you:

• Bring copies of previous mammograms and reports with you, if possible
• Describe any breast problems to the technician before X-rays are taken
• Inform the technician if you are pregnant or have breast implants
• Not apply deodorant, talcum powder, lotion, or perfume near your breasts or under your arms
• Wear a two-piece outfit (you will need to remove all of your clothing and jewelry from the waist up and change into a gown that opens in the front)

During the procedure

We want you to feel as comfortable as possible during your mammogram. The procedure takes about 20 minutes for a screening mammogram and about 30-45 minutes for a diagnostic mammogram. Most women feel discomfort, and some feel pain. Tell the technician about any pain so the plastic plate can be adjusted. During the mammogram:

Two pictures of each breast are taken. During one, you face toward the platform. The image is taken looking down at the breast. For the second, you stand beside the machine for a side view. The X-rays are repeated on the other breast. Extra images, from different angles, may be necessary if you have breast implants.

You will stand in front of a special X-ray machine, which has a platform to place your breast on. The technician adjusts the height of the platform, then lifts and positions one breast between a special cassette that holds the film and a clear plastic plate.

The plate is brought close to the platform and compresses the breast to hold it in place and allow for a clearer image. Tell the technician if the plate compresses so tightly that it feels painful.

Getting the mammogram results

Usually, you will receive your results by mail within a few days or by the e-mail you provided on the date of your service. If you do not hear from the mammography center, call and ask for the results. If a doctor referred you, they will receive a report describing anything out of the ordinary and suggesting a possible diagnosis. Depending on the results, additional views or tests may be ordered.

Being proactive about your breast health is a vital part of preventing and effectively treating chronic diseases, such as cancer. At Colleton Medical Center, we provide the resources needed to maintain your breast health. From preventative screening to comprehensive treatment options, we use the latest technology to diagnose and treat breast cancer.