State-of-the-art
digital mammography...

Mammography is a low-dose X ray study of the breasts. The key role of mammography is to identify a site of cancer early, before it is large enough to be felt as a lump. Studies show that early detection of breast cancers by regular screening increases the chance of cure, often with breast preservation treatment. Mammography is the best method of screening for the presence of a small lump or tiny group of microcalcifications, which may be the only sign of a breast cancer.

Tristan Associates is proud to have introduced full field digital mammography to the Central Pennsylvania region. Digital mammography uses xrays to create an image of the breast, much like conventional mammography. But with digital mammography, no film is involved -- the image is acquired by electronic methods and displayed on a high resolution computer monitor.

Advantages of digital mammography include a lower dose of radiation compared to conventional mammography, fewer repeat films for under- or over-exposure, fewer additional views needed to detect cancer, shorter turnaround time in the office, and ability to manipulate the image (for instance, with edge enhancement).

Our state-of-the art digital mammography has been clinically proven to be superior to traditional film mammography in women with dense breasts, women younger than 50, and perimenopausal women. (For more information, see the National Cancer Institute's website about the Digital Mammographic Imaging Screening Trial)

... at a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence ...

The American College of Radiology is proud to introduce the Breast Imaging Center of Excellence Award. As of October 1, 2007, the ACR began recognizing breast-imaging centers that achieve excellence by seeking and earning accreditation in all of the ACR's voluntary breast-imaging accreditation programs and modules, in addition to the mandatory Mammography Accreditation Program.

... with Computer Aided Detection (CAD), ...

Digital mammography also permits the use of CAD (Computer-Aided Detection).

... maximum comfort, ...

We use the Biolucent Mammopads during your mammogram. The Mammopad softens the compression paddle used during mammography and reduces the cold sensation you feel when compression is applied.

... and your results while you wait.

At all Tristán Associates sites, you'll get your results while you're still in our office (a limited number of evening appointments are available at selected sites for screening studies in asymptomatic women, with the results available the next business day). The advantages are obvious. For most women, the yearly mammogram results are normal, and having that good news right away provides peace of mind. Of the remaining women who have an abnormal mammogram, all that is required for most women is an additional mammographic view or two, or perhaps breast ultrasound. If you are in this group, you will also have the opportunity to have those additional tests taken care of while you're still in our office -- no more return visits at a later time, taking off work, or waiting for and worrying about the results.