Breast Services & Mammography

Abbreviated Breast MRI – also known as FAST MRI – is a shorter version of a standard breast MRI that focuses on the most important images for detecting breast cancer. This technology is another option for women who have an average or intermediate lifetime risk of breast cancer AND dense breast tissue or for women who qualify for, but are not able to proceed with, a standard breast MRI.

Charlotte Radiology performs all screening mammograms using 3D technology as the standard of care. Also referred to as digital breast tomosynthesis or “tomo,” 3D mammography offers better image quality and greater accuracy in detecting breast concerns at an early stage – and at a lower radiation dose. This advanced technology is available to patients at all Charlotte Radiology breast center locations (including the mobile breast center). Most insurance plans cover annual 3D screening mammograms at 100%.

A 3D diagnostic mammogram can be ordered by a physician when further evaluation of the breast is needed. Diagnostic mammography may include a combination of imaging technologies and/or procedures and can provide more information about an area of concern found on a screening mammogram. It can also be helpful in evaluating patients with a history of breast cancer or those experiencing symptoms like a worrisome lump, nipple discharge or changes in the breast skin.

Breast MRI is a highly advanced technology that produces images of soft tissue in the breast. When used with screening and diagnostic mammography, MRI technology provides additional information for the early detection and diagnosis of breast disease. And for women with a high risk of breast cancer, breast MRI can serve as an additional safeguard.

A needle biopsy of the breast is performed when the radiologist identifies an area of concern through diagnostic mammography. Needle biopsy is a safe and minimally invasive procedure that uses a needle to retrieve a small sample of breast tissue. This tissue sample is then studied by a pathologist to confirm whether the breast tissue is benign (no cancer found) or cancerous.

Breast ultrasound technology uses sound waves to evaluate specific areas of concern that are ‘palpable’ (can be felt), such as a breast lump, or anything identified on a mammogram that requires further study. Breast ultrasound is an imaging technology often used in combination with diagnostic mammography. While mammography images evaluate the entire breast, ultrasound images can provide more information on a specific area.

Screening breast ultrasound (SBU) can be ordered by a physician for select patients to detect some cancers that may not be visible on a 3D mammogram. SBU utilizes sound waves instead of radiation to scan the entire breast, providing radiologists with additional information to evaluate breast tissue. This technology is another option for women with risk factors for breast cancer and/or dense breasts, and those who are not able to have a breast MRI.