Mammography

Most screening mammograms lead to nothing but peace of mind. However, because breast cancer is still the leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer, your screening mammogram is vitally important.

Statistics indicate that one in eight women will develop breast cancer sometime in her lifetime. The stage at which breast cancer is detected influences a woman’s chance of survival. If detected early, the five-year survival rate is 98 percent.

Mammography is the most accurate x-ray method available for detecting lumps in the breast. An x-ray examination of the breast can detect lumps much sooner than they may be felt through self-breast examination. Mammograms are examined by radiologists who are specially trained in diagnosing breast disease.

Whether you’re due for a screening mammogram, or have been putting it off and are overdue, the caregivers in Winona Health’s Imaging department encourage you to schedule your appointment.

With equipment specially designed to make compression more comfortable and exams quick, Winona Health offers the most advanced technology with 3D mammography.

Three-Dimensional (3D) Mammography (also called tomosynthesis) is a screening exam that takes images of breast tissue in layers. This has proven to be beneficial for patients with dense breasts, those getting their first mammogram and patients at higher risk for breast cancer. Screening Mammography using 3D technology is covered by Medicare and many insurance providers. However, not all insurance providers cover screenings using 3D technology, so you may be responsible for an additional fee.

To schedule a mammogram in the Women’s Imaging Department at Winona Health, call 507.457.4320, then select option 1.

Winona Health is certified by the Commission on Cancer and has earned accreditation in Mammography, Breast Ultrasound and Stereotactic Breast Biopsy by the American College of Radiology.