Anne C. Pappas Center for Breast Imaging

Digital Mammography

A mammogram is an x-ray of the breasts. All mammograms are fully digital, meaning an electronic image of the breast is taken and stored in our computer system. In a routine screening mammogram, two pictures of each breast are taken.

To achieve the best images possible using the least amount of radiation, the breasts are compressed briefly during the exam. For a small percentage of screening mammograms, the radiologist may request that the patient return for additional imaging to better evaluate a particular area.

Most of the time, these additional images show nothing of concern.

It is important for the radiologist to compare your current mammogram with prior studies, so please either bring in any prior mammograms or let us know where they were performed so we can request them.

Effective routine mammograms have been proven to find breast cancer early, when it is much more treatable. For women with an average risk of developing breast cancer, a mammogram is the best breast cancer screening test available. 

For more information about digital mammography, you can speak to one of our experts by calling 401-444-7770, or by emailing [email protected].