Screening and diagnostic 3D mammograms
A 3D mammogram, also known as breast tomosynthesis, is an imaging test that uses a series of X-rays to create a 3D picture of the breast. The latest in breast health procedures, 3D mammography can be used to screen for breast cancer (as a routine annual mammogram) or to evaluate problems such as a lump or pain in the breast.
For many years, 2D digital mammography was the standard approach to breast imaging; however, 3D mammography has been proven to:
- Reduce false positives (when a test result incorrectly indicates cancer is present) by up to 40 percent, because of increased specificity and sensitivity of the detailed image
- Improve the detection of breast cancer by 10 to 30 percent
The American College of Radiology recommends annual screening mammograms beginning at age 40. Certain factors impact your risk of breast cancer, including your medical history, age, ethnicity and family history. Talk to your doctor or other health care provider about the screening regimen that’s right for you.
Schedule your 3D mammogram online
Scheduling your screening mammogram is now easier than ever. As an established patient, you can now schedule your mammogram at our Covington, Gig Harbor, Olympia and Spokane locations through your MyChart account, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Log in to MyChart to Schedule Learn More About Online Scheduling
Call to schedule
Please call to ask for assistance in finding an appointment:
- Puget Sound and Thurston County regions: 253-792-6220
- Spokane region: 509-530-3099
- Yakima region: 509-574-3863
Online scheduling FAQ
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Who can use MyChart scheduling for screening mammograms?
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Established patients who have a MyChart account can schedule their mammogram within MyChart. If you are a current patient but don’t have a MyChart account, learn how to set one up.
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How can I schedule my mammogram using MyChart?
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- Log in to your MyChart account or open your MultiCare MyChart mobile app
- From your MyChart home page, go to the Visits icon at the top of the screen and choose Schedule an appointment
- Select Screening mammogram for the appropriate region (Puget Sound or Spokane)
- Answer a few screening questions
- Select your preferred location
- Select the date and time that works for you from the list of appointments available
- Provide the requested information as prompted and select Schedule
- Once scheduled, you’ll have the option to add the appointment to your personal calendar
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What if I don’t see an appointment that works for me or I need assistance scheduling?
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Please call the appropriate region to ask for assistance in finding an appointment:
- Puget Sound and Thurston County regions: 253-792-6220
- Spokane region: 509-530-3099
- Yakima region: 509-574-3863
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Can I still call to schedule an appointment, or do I need to schedule through MyChart?
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Yes, you can still call to schedule an appointment during business hours. MyChart scheduling is just another way MultiCare is making it easier to manage your health care, enabling you to schedule seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
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What if I can’t log in to my MyChart account?
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If you’re having trouble accessing your MyChart account, please call MyChart customer service at 844-388-2356. Customer service is available to support you Monday-Friday, 7am-5pm.
What to expect
Your 3D mammogram will be performed by a certified technologist with advanced training in mammography. Before your exam, you will undress from the waist up, change into a gown, and remove any powder, deodorant or perfumes from your underarms and breasts using a towelette. Material in these products can interfere with accurate imaging of your breast tissue.
Typically, a routine screening mammogram consists of two views of each breast, one from above and one from the side. Images are obtained by compressing your breast tissue between a compression paddle and plate. Adequate compression is essential to detect subtle abnormalities and reduce radiation exposure. The compression may be briefly uncomfortable, especially if your breasts are tender. Most screening mammograms take approximately 15-30 minutes.
If your radiologist sees something abnormal on your screening mammogram, you will be asked to return for a follow-up diagnostic mammogram. A diagnostic mammogram is more detailed and may take longer than a typical screening mammogram. Depending on the results of the diagnostic mammogram, your doctor or other health care provider may order additional imaging such as an ultrasound or MRI.
How to prepare
When you schedule your appointment, let us know if:
- You have had previous mammograms at other locations so we can compare them to your new images. You may need to request mammogram records directly from the previous facility.
- You are nursing or think you could be pregnant.
- You have breast implants. During your exam, we may need to use special positioning or take additional images.
- You’ve recently had a breast surgery or biopsy.
- You have a personal history of breast cancer.
Following these tips may reduce discomfort from breast compression:
- Schedule your examination one week following your menstrual cycle.
- Eliminate coffee, tea or caffeinated products five days prior to your exam. Caffeine may increase breast sensitivity.
- Take a nonaspirin pain reliever such as Tylenol (acetaminophen), Motrin/Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen) one hour before your examination.
How to get results
A radiologist, a physician who specializes in interpreting medical imaging, will carefully examine your mammogram and any additional studies. The exam results will be sent to your health care provider and available through your MyChart account. A letter briefly explaining the results will also be mailed to you. It is important to follow up with your health care provider.