Mammography is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose X-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the diagnosis of breast diseases in women.
Mammograms are used as a screening tool to detect early breast cancer in women experiencing no symptoms, and to detect and diagnose breast disease in women experiencing symptoms such as a lump, pain or nipple discharge.
Digital mammography is available at all four of our mammography locations--Mercy Medical Center in downtown Des Moines, Mercy North in Anken, Mercy West in Clive and Mercy East in Pleasant Hill. Digital mammography provides a faster, accurate image. Mercy is also the only provider to offer patients the Mammopad®, a soft foam pad that provides a more comfortable mammogram.
Mercy was recently named a Pink Ribbon Facility™ by Hologic®–the leading manufacturer and supplier of diagnostic, surgical and medical imaging equipment–for excellence in breast health and use of advanced digital mammography technology.
In conjunction with the digital mammography technology, we offer the latest technology with the R2 image checker.
For more information on mammography:
- American Cancer Society: Mammograms and other Breast Imaging Procedures
- Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation: Mammography Recommendations
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