Mammogram screen worry

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1

I had my mammogram today and after it was done the mammographer told me to wait while she ask the radiologist to check if they were clear enough.

She came out and said I was then ok to go.

Now I am worried that something was wrong.

I am 68 had breast cancer in 2006 so the mammo was only on one breast.

I am now worried. Do they always check the mammogram screen was clear before they let you go.

They said results take two weeks.

I have had lots of mammos but cant remember them checking they were clear enough before.

Any advice welcomed.

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2

Hi @yesnik I’ve had to sit outside after mammograms and wait until the radiologist has checked the quality of the images. On my first mammo after BC active treatment, I was asked to sit outside and 5 minutes later the radiologist came out to say I could go but then offered me a look at the images and she explained what they look for. I was 67 at that point so much less dense breasts and found it all very interesting. This year there were no radiologists on duty so I was told they’d look at them in due course and the results would be available two weeks after that. So I am pretty sure it is part of the process to check that the images are good and include all of the appropriate tissue whilst you’re there if possible. It saves having to call you back in to redo them which would be much more stressful. Try not to worry.

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3

Probably just double-checking that they’re clear enough for your consultant to see. I know it’s worrying, especially even more now.

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4

Thank you all so much for your reassurance and care. I feel so silly for being so anxious but I just worry. x

5

Please don’t feel silly @yesnik. It is a genuine and understandable response. Scanxiety is felt by many. I’m having an MRI and a CT scan of my bowel and colon over Christmas and I’m already beginning to think “what if …” even if the thing that precipitated it is not serious (just a nuisance). You did right by coming on here to sense-check your response, however, what you describe, I believe to be standard practice.

6

Hi yesnik

Thanks for your post.

Many people feel anxious around the time of a mammogram and especially so if you have previously been treated for breast cancer.

It is quite usual for the radiographers in the screening unit to check that the mammogram image is clear and good quality before you leave. This is to ensure it can be properly assessed and so reduce the chance of you needing to go back. As @Tigress says having to recall someone to redo mammograms is much more stressful. Results are normally sent out around two weeks later.

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Best wishes

Julie

Breast Care Nurse

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