Speedier mammogram results could reduce stress over tests
By Glenna Picton
Yearly mammogram screenings often involve waiting for test results, a process that can be stressful and may even deter some women from getting their annual tests.
Now the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine offers mammogram and ultrasound results in one day, which could help reduce a patient's fear of diagnosis, said Emily Sedgwick, M.D., director of breast imaging at the BCM Breast Center.
"Early detection is the single most important way to increase a patient's chance of survival," said Sedgwick. "Our process of gathering the diagnostic mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy in one day decreases the patient's wait time and anxiety. Hopefully, this will make them more likely to come in for their annual mammograms and detect their cancers earlier."
Other breast imaging centers may have patients set up separate appointments for each 'test step,' wait for results and then confirm whether they will move forward on to the next diagnostic procedure, Sedgwick said.
Don't delay tests
Beginning at age 40, women should have a screening mammogram once a year, Sedgwick said.
"Some women may put off their annual mammograms because they are scared of a breast cancer diagnosis," said Sedgwick. "If we are able to detect the cancer early, when the breast tumor is small, a woman's chance of survival significantly improves."
Patients come in for routine mammogram screening and if additional mammogram or ultrasound images and biopsy are required, they are usually conducted in the same clinic on the same day, Sedgwick said.
Digital advantage
Another advantage of the Breast Center imaging services is that the facility is "all digital," Sedgwick said.
"Studies have shown that with digital mammography, we are able to detect cancer more effectively in younger, premenopausal women who have dense breast tissue," said Sedgwick. "Spotting cancer early in these women may otherwise be even more difficult."
Post-diagnosis
Additionally, imaging patients are cared for post-diagnosis, Sedgwick said.
"We call our patients with the biopsy results. If they do have breast cancer, we will notify the new-patient oncology nurse to set up an appointment to see an oncologist. They usually see an oncologist within a week of their cancer diagnoses," said Sedgwick. "We are really committed to taking care of our patients and helping them through this complex process."
Biopsy results can take up to five business days, Sedgwick said.
To set up a mammogram or general appointment, call 713-798-1999.
