Breast health

At the Breast Care Center, our team of experienced, certified healthcare professionals are here to provide women a positive breast imaging experience. Our team is made up of American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certified technologists, breast care coordinators and fellowship-trained radiologists.

We offer a full spectrum of imaging technologies to ensure our patients have access to the advanced imaging they need. In addition to innovative technologies, we also make your mammogram as comfortable as possible by using soft cushions during screenings.

We offer:

• 3T (tesla) breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) — This type of MRI allows for both breasts to be scanned simultaneously, while maintaining the same quality resolution and scan time as a single-breast MRI.
• Breast ultrasound — This specialized ultrasound is used to assess blood flow, or lack of it, in the breast. It is often used to further analyze a mass after it is discovered or as a supplemental screening tool.
• Computer-aided detection (CAD) — This technology assists radiologists by searching for abnormal densities, masses or calcification on breast images. It highlights any suspicious areas for further analyzation by a radiologist.
• Digital diagnostic mammography — This type of mammogram is performed if a patient is experiencing abnormalities, such as breast pain or a lump felt during a physical exam. It may also be performed if abnormal results are found in a screening mammogram.
• Digital screening mammography — This type of exam uses X-ray technology to produce images displayed on a computer screen. Screening mammograms are recommended as annual, routine procedures for women starting at 40 years old.

If additional diagnostic exams are needed, we can often immediately provide the next exam or assist in scheduling an exam to expedite the process.

Benefits of digital mammography

Digital mammography is ideal for detecting breast abnormalities in women 50 years old or younger and women with dense breast tissue. It also offers numerous benefits compared to a traditional, screen-film mammogram, including:

• Ability to enhance and manipulate images for further evaluation
• High-quality images to differentiate between cancerous tissue and normal tissue
• Magnified images for better visualization of calcification
• Shorter exam times
• Uses up to 60 percent less radiation exposure

Breast biopsy services

If a diagnostic imaging exam shows a suspicious area, a breast biopsy may be ordered. Our breast care coordinator will work with your primary care provider to expedite care.

Depending on the location of the identified abnormality, the radiologist will perform one of the following types of biopsies:

• Needle localization
• Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy

If a breast biopsy is needed, it will be scheduled through our breast care coordinator. They can be reached at (407) 518-4387.

When preparing for a breast imaging appointment, please bring any results from previous imaging exams with you. This will help in the interpretation of your exam.

Other things to keep in mind:

• Be prepared to change into a patient gown.
• Bring any other data with you, as instructed by your physician.
• Do not wear deodorant or perfume.
• Notify your physician and technologist if there is a chance you're pregnant.
• Notify your physician and technologist if you are currently breastfeeding.
• Wear comfortable clothing.

When you arrive for your mammogram, you will be asked for picture identification and insurance information at the time of registration. A physician order, including a patient history and any symptoms, is required for exams to be completed.

All orders for a diagnostic mammogram must include a diagnosis. Our registration staff will attempt to obtain a revised order from your physician's office, if needed. If after 30 minutes we are unable to obtain a revised order, you will be rescheduled for another day.

The Breast Care Center is located inside Osceola Imaging and Breast Center, on the campus of HCA Florida Osceola Hospital. We are open Monday through Thursday from 7:00am to 4:30pm. We are closed Saturday and Sunday.