Full field Digital Mammography

The American Cancer Society recommends that all women 40 and over have a yearly screening mammogram. A screening mammogram is done on women who are asymptomatic, that is, they are not complaining of any lumps in the breast. This exam consists of two images of both breasts in order to pick up subtle abnormalities that might indicate the presence of either precancerous or actual breast cancer. Patients might be recalled for additional imaging of the breasts depending on what the radiologist sees on the mammogram. A physician's order is not necessary for screening mammogram. However, supply us with a physician’s name to send the report to.

With the technology of digital mammography, images are obtained faster and can be manipulated to help identify abnormalities in the breast that might otherwise be missed on conventional mammograms.

Diagnostic mammograms are performed on patients who complain of an abnormality in the breast and can take several forms, such as a lump, pain or discharge from the nipple.

Our radiologist Dr. O’Connell, will discuss the findings with you before you leave our department. A physician referral is required for all diagnostic mammograms. This can readily be obtained.

During the course of any mammogram, it is important to obtain good quality images. This is achieved by allowing the technologist to compress your breast; allowing the breast tissue to be spread out which can facilitate identifying abnormalities. However, the technologist will work closely with you to reach the level of compression that you can tolerate. The breast compression only lasts for seconds.

Please note that deodorant and body powder can leave small specks on the images, therefore we recommend that you not wear deodorant or body powder on the day of the exam. We can provide you with deodorant before you leave.

Breast Ultrasound

Our radiologists may ask for a breast ultrasound in conjunction with a mammogram. This exam uses sound waves to identify abnormalities in the breast and does not require radiation. The purpose of this test is to distinguish between a cyst and a solid mass. While you are in the department the radiologist will let you know at the time of the exam what her findings are.

Some women, especially younger women, may come directly to us if they find a mass. Most of these cases tend to be benign and require no intervention, however, it is always a good idea to check with a doctor to make sure that is the case.

Ultrasound Guided Breast Cyst Aspiration

If the cyst is painful or there are indications that it may be infected, our radiologists may suggest a cyst aspiration, which involves removal of the fluid from the cyst. This is a painless procedure that can be performed during the patient’s visit. Most times the cyst fluid can be discarded but sometimes it may be sent to a laboratory for evaluation.

Ultrasound guided core biopsy

If there is a solid mass present in the breast it may be necessary to obtain a larger sample of tissue. After a local anesthetic is given, a small nick is made in the skin and a needle is advanced into the mass. The radiologist then ensures that they can watch the needle going into the mass insuring that it is accurately placed and that adequate tissue is removed and sent to a laboratory for analysis. Our center tries to provide a turnaround time of 24 hours on pathology specimens.

Dr. O’Connell consults with the pathologist and then communicates the results to the patient and her referring doctor directly.

Ductography

Ductography of the breast is an underused procedure that often helps define the cause of unilateral, single-pore, spontaneous nipple discharge. Since nipple discharge may be caused by benign tumors, such as papillomas and carcinoma or ductal carcinoma in situ, identification of intraductal abnormalities with ductography is important. Further, diagnostic ductography and preoperative ductography help guide accurate surgical intervention.

Obstetrical Ultrasound

An obstetrical ultrasound is a procedure used to obtain an in-depth look at the fetus. We can perform this on women in all stages of their pregnancy, including high-risk.

Pelvic Ultrasound

Pelvic ultrasounds utilize sound waves to evaluate structures of the uterus and ovaries. Our team of doctors and technologists can perform in-depth exams to rule out any abnormalities such as polyps, fibroid tumors and ovarian cysts and masses.

Bone Density (DEXA)

Bone density test - also called densitometry or DXA scan - determines whether you have osteoporosis or are at risk of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become more fragile and more likely to break. A bone density test uses X-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed into a segment of bone. A bone density test is a fairly accurate predictor of your risk of fracture.

Wire Needle Localization

A needle/wire localization involves the use of mammography to ensure the wire is correctly inserted into the suspicious area. The skin of the breast will be anesthetized before the procedure. The wire is inside the needle that is inserted into the breast. A second mammogram is taken to ensure that the needle properly identifies the area to be removed. The surgeon then uses the needle as a guide, and removes the area with a margin of tissue during the surgical biopsy.

Other Services

Abdomen Ultrasound

Thyroid Ultrasound

Thyroid Biopsy

Aorta Doppler

Carotid Doppler

Venous Leg Doppler

Renal & Bladder Ultrasound

Patient Testimonials

"Over the last 30 years, I've had mammograms at 4-5 different centers in Austin. Deborah's Imaging Center is the most relaxing and efficient of all! Her kindness, and that of her technicians, makes all the difference." - Kathryn A.

"This has been the best mammogram experience I've had in 20 years. Having a family history of breast cancer, I am super vigilant about breast care and self exams. The docs & staff at the Deborah O'Connell Women's Imaging Center are kind, informative and very gentle. I'm happy my doctor recommended them." - Karen W.

"I have never looked forward to having my annual mammogram, but the warm and professional way that the Women's Imaging Center conducted itself has changed my mind. Everyone was very kind and gentle. Thank You!" - Carolyn M.

"Both the technologist and doctor were very caring and professional. It was the easiest and most painless mammogram I have ever had. Thanks!" - Anonymous

"I love the professional, friendly atmosphere. I have been to other imaging centers where I feel like cattle being herded in and out. Here the staff was wonderful, wait time short, and made me feel at ease." - Twila K.

"Great Experience! Staff personally interested, concerned, thoughtful and gentle. Not a clinical experience! A personal and professional evaluation by experienced women here to help other women." - Windy H.

"Amazing Experience! Thank you, thank you, thank you for making something not pleasant an easy, informative, painless experience. Staff were wonderful!" - Michelle D.