X-RAY MAMMOGRAPHY

Bilateral Mammography Overview

Bimanual test bilaterography is more commonly known as the two-handed breast test. This test, as its name implies, uses both hands and thumbs so as to touch both breasts. This is done in order to examine the breasts closely for any lumps or any other irregularities. There are other techniques that can be employed in this test which are x-ray imaging techniques that are low or high intensity and are useful in visualizing the entire spectrum of breast tissues in three planes . In this circumstances it makes it possible to see changes in the structure of the breast, which is important in establishing the diagnosis and further continue to pursue surveillance on other conditions of the woman’s breast. As for mammograms, it has been indicated that the procedure works best if it is performed at least three days after the menstrual cycle since that is when the breasts are least likely to be swollen and is more effective even if no creams or deodorants are sprayed before the imaging motion. 

What Is Bilateral Mammography? 

Bilateral mammography is an x-ray technology that focuses on both breasts. This type of test is accomplished with the two breast pressing plates which evenly distribute the breast tissue for better imaging. The x rays are then directed forward the breast tissue which provides clearer pictures by detecting changes in mass volumes which may be an indicator of lumps and other structural changes inside the breast. 

Types of Bilateral Mammography 

• Film-screen mammography: This is the first method ever devised, which uses film to take images. 
• Digital mammography: This technology incorporates computers and digital screens which make it easier to review and save images. 
• 3D mammography (tomosynthesis): This technique enhances how mammography is performed by producing a 3-dimensional view of the breast thus improving the chances of finding small lumps. 

List of Parameters Considered During the Bilateral Mammography

• Breast density: The amount of breast tissue may give rise to difficulties in detection. 
• The presence of lumps, masses, cysts, or calcifications. 
• Mammographic changes in the condition of the breast as compared to prior tests. 
• Age, menopausal status, and the history of the patient, such as breast surgeries. 

Reasons for Taking a Bilateral Mammography

• Women who go for regular screening tend to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer. 
• Women who report changes in their breast or when a clinician notices suspicious breast changes are advised to go through a mammogram. 
• Should there be changes in the previous condition of the breast that was detected, a mammogram should be done. 

When and Who Needs a Bilateral Mammography? 

• Screening for breast cancer which is generally performed for women aged over 40 years. 
• Women having family or personal history of breast cancer or mutations in the genes such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. 
• Women complaining of dry cough, discharge from one of their breasts, lumps in the breast or unexplained pains in and around the breast. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• The early discovery of breast cancer greatly increases the likelihood of successful treatment. 
• Identification of other breast abnormalities which can be addressed at an appropriate time. 
• It is a quick and easy technique that does not involve any surgical procedures. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with Bilateral Mammography

• All forms of breast cancer 
• Non-cancerous changes in breasts including fibrocystic changes, cysts or fibroadenomas. 
• Some forms of calcifications that may be completely benign or slightly malignant. 

Preparing for Bilateral Mammography

• Try to have the test when the tenderness of the breast has subsided, this is normally at the end of the menstrual cycle. 
• Deodorants, lotions, or even powders must be avoided on the day of the test so that they don’t show in the X-ray. 
• Gentlemen should wear a two-piece suit for easy access. 

Pre-requisites 

• Water can be taken during the preparation of the exam. 
• Patients with breast prosthesis should inform the center in advance since more views may be necessary. 
• If you think you may be pregnant then you should tell your technician. 

Best Time to Take the Bilateral Mammography 

• It is ideal when tenderness or swelling is not pronounced in the breasts, a week after a woman has her monthly period is the best time. 
• It can be done any time if necessary, but there should take into account personal comfort and which time to do to get clear images. 

Eligibility 

• Chrest in 2014 recommends that women aged 40 years and over can be a target population for routine screening. 
• For those who have greater risk factors for breast cancer, screening may commence at an earlier time at the physician’s discretion. 

Procedure for Taking a Bilateral Mammography 

• Step 1: The patient is required to face the mammographic machine. 
• Step 2: The X-ray plate is brought in contact with each breast. 
• Step 3: The compression paddle is placed on the breast in order to obtain a homogeneous distribution of the breast tissue. 
• Step 4: X-rays are then taken from the right and left lateral planes. 
• Step 5: The same series of steps are followed with the second breast. 

Total time: This procedure starts and ends in an average total time of between 20-30 minutes. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• Say the patient has breast tenderness or has had an operation to place an implant, breast implants, etc., then the technician should be notified of this. 
• Prior to the exam, talk to your doctor about any abnormal symptoms or any kind of changes occurring in the breast.