Breast Imaging & Mammography

A mammogram is a medical imaging exam that uses a low-dose x-ray to obtain images of breast tissue. Mammography is the most effective method of early breast cancer detection.

Screening mammography can be scheduled at:

• Midwest Radiology Outpatient Imaging - Burnsville  (Scheduling: 952.893.0000)
• Midwest Radiology Outpatient Imaging - Breast Center (Scheduling: 763.786.9460)

Diagnostic mammography can be scheduled at:

• Midwest Radiology Outpatient Imaging - Breast Center (Scheduling: 763.786.9460)

Tomosynthesis, also known as tomo or 3D, is an advanced type of mammogram that uses the same x-ray technology as standard 2D mammograms. In 3D exams, the camera moves in an arc over the breast, taking images from various angles. This type of exam provides images of breast tissue in layers, making it easier to find abnormalities. For more information about tomo (3D) and the differences between 2D and 3D exams, download/print our FAQ sheet.

Tomo (3D) mammography can be scheduled at:

• Midwest Radiology Outpatient Imaging - Burnsville  (Scheduling: 952.893.0000)
• Midwest Radiology Outpatient Imaging - Breast Center (Scheduling: 763.786.9460)

• Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete registration.
• Bring your insurance card and a valid photo ID.

• Schedule your clinical (physical) breast exam prior to your mammogram.
• Schedule your mammogram the week following your period.
• If you have breast tenderness, take a mild pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) about one hour before your scheduled mammogram. If caffeine causes breast tenderness, refrain from caffeinated beverages for one week prior to your mammogram. 
• Do not wear deodorant, lotion or body powder on your chest or underarm areas on the day of your appointment. These can appear on the mammogram images as calcium spots. 
• Please inform us if there is a possibility that you may be pregnant.

A mammogram typically takes 20-30 minutes.

The technologist will position one of your breasts between two plates, which will gradually compress for each image. This may cause discomfort, but you should not experience significant pain. The process will be repeated for your other breast. For the best quality images, you will be asked to remain as still as possible during the exam.

Your images will be interpreted by one of our board-certified breast imaging radiologists.
The findings will be sent to your healthcare provider who will then contact you to discuss the results. We will also mail you a letter with your results.

In certain circumstances, you may need further diagnostic evaluation, such as a diagnostic mammogram or an ultrasound. This does not necessarily indicate an abnormality was found or that your mammogram was not properly obtained, but that additional images are needed to ensure all breast tissue is fully evaluated.

Effective August 1, 2014, a new law by the Minnesota State Legislature requires all Minnesota mammography facilities to report breast density to patients with dense breasts. For more information on breast density, download/print the breast density patient brochure (PDF).