Mammography & Breast Health

This technology enables radiologists to more easily detect small calcifications, masses and other changes that may be signs of early cancer. Digital mammography uses a lower dose of radiation, improves the overall quality of the image and provides a higher detection rate of breast cancer among women under 50, pre- and peri-menopausal women, and women with dense breast tissue.

The addition of the Hologic Selenia® Dimensions® 3D Mammography to our 2D digital mammography provides another technologically advanced option for women, and provides physicians with an added dimension when examining images of the breast. The result is a more comprehensive and clearer view of the entire breast structures, such as milk ducts, fat and ligaments.

ABUS technology is the only ultrasound device approved by the U.S. FDA for screening women with dense breasts. This system was developed specifically for dense breast imaging to help find cancer that may be missed by mammography.

Breast ultrasound is used to further evaluate a breast abnormality or lump seen on mammography. Ultrasound can determine if a breast lump is solid (tumor) or filled with fluid (cyst). Breast ultrasound is not meant to replace the mammogram. Unlike mammography, ultrasound is not able to detect small calcifications.

The breast biopsy system helps doctors obtain breast tissue for definitive diagnosis without surgery. A local anesthetic is given in the breast. This procedure causes little pain, does not require stitches, can be performed quickly and has a short recovery time. It is as accurate as a surgical biopsy. Having this procedure done? Find the test prep sheet here.

In October 2016, Mercy became the first in Iowa to use the Affirm^TM 2D/3D prone biopsy system for breast biopsies. It's the fastest, most comfortable, latest breast biopsy technology that allows patients to avoid surgery, and it's only at Mercy.

Mammograms are THE exam women need to begin to monitor their breast health. But, mammograms are just the starting point. Forty percent of U.S. women have dense breasts, which can hide cancer on a mammogram. Each woman should learn about her personal breast cancer risk factors and about the importance of knowing her breast density. Dense breasts are normal, but also increase the risk for breast cancer. If your breasts are dense (more than 50% fibroglandular tissue), you may need more testing after your mammogram to help assess your breast health. Every woman is different, every breast is different. Are you at risk? Learn more about breast density.

Mercy's breast health specialists provide information on benign breast conditions, as well as guidance for women navigating the breast cancer experience from diagnosis through treatment and conditions such as lymphedema. They help answer patients' questions and coordinate services and appointments. They also:

• provide education and information for the patient and family.
• explain treatment options' pros, cons and side effects.
• support the patient and family members in decision-making.
• offer referrals to other services and community resources.
• facilitate physicians' recommendations for care, promoting patient understanding.
• follow up once treatment is complete.

If it's cancer, learn more about breast cancer treatment at Mercy's Hall-Perrine Cancer Center.

A support group for individuals with a history of breast cancer. Learn more.

If the inability to pay prevents you or someone you know from seeking breast care services services, the Especially for You Fund is here for you. Since October 1991, free mammograms and other breast-care services have been provided to area women in need through the Especially for You fund, a result of the annual Especially for You Race Against Breast Cancer.