Breast Diagnostic Services

3D mammography is an advanced type of mammogram that creates clearer, more detailed images of breast tissue. It is used for both screening and diagnostic exams and can improve early cancer detection while reducing the chance of being called back for additional imaging. 3D mammography is the standard mammogram option at Community.

A routine digital mammogram is a standard screening exam used to look for early signs of breast cancer in people without breast symptoms. The exam takes only a few minutes, and images are reviewed by a breast radiologist. 

A diagnostic mammogram is used when you have breast symptoms, a recent abnormal screening result, or a personal history of breast cancer. During the procedure, additional images may be taken to closely evaluate a specific area. Results will be read right away and made available to you during your visit.

Breast ultrasound is a painless imaging test that uses sound waves to look at the inside of the breast. It is often used to check whether a lump is a fluid-filled cyst or solid. Breast ultrasound is commonly performed after a mammography to further evaluate areas of concern.

Breast MRI is a detailed imaging test that uses magnetic fields to create 3D images of breast tissue. The procedure may be used to look more closely at abnormalities seen on a mammogram, to screen high-risk women for breast cancer or to assess the extent of breast cancer found in a biopsy. Breast MRI is not a replacement for a mammogram.

Cyst aspiration is a procedure used to drain fluid from a breast cyst that may be causing discomfort or needs further evaluation. Ultrasound imaging helps guide the procedure, which may also confirm whether the lump is a simple cyst.

An ultrasound‑guided core biopsy is used to determine whether a breast abnormality is benign or cancerous. Using ultrasound imaging for guidance, a small sample of tissue is taken from the area of concern so it can be examined under a microscope. This procedure is minimally invasive and typically performed with local numbing medication.

A fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure used to evaluate a breast lump or abnormal area. A thin needle is used to collect a small sample of cells, which are then examined to help determine whether the finding is benign or cancerous. This procedure is typically quick and performed with local numbing medication.

A stereotactic core biopsy uses mammography x-ray guidance to precisely locate and remove a sample of breast tissue through a small incision. This quick, minimally invasive procedure is performed under local anesthetic for comfort and often includes the placement of a tiny marker to guide future care.

Ductography is an imaging test used to evaluate the milk ducts of the breast, most often when there is nipple discharge. Contrast material is used to help identify changes within the ducts that may need further evaluation.

Preoperative localization (needle loc) is used to guide breast surgery by helping the surgeon precisely locate an abnormal area before the procedure. This ensures that the correct tissue is removed while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a surgical procedure that identifies and removes the first lymph node(s) where cancer cells are most likely to spread from a tumor. By mapping this specific drainage path, doctors can determine if the cancer has moved beyond the breast while sparing the patient from more extensive surgery.