Diagnostic Radiology

The Breast Imaging Service at Yale-New Haven Hospital

The Breast Imaging Service at Yale-New Haven Hospital performs over 20,000 breast imaging exams each year. In addition, more than 1,000 breast biopsies are performed each year.

The breast imaging service of YNHH provides patients with the latest technology available, including digital mammography and breast MRI. All breast imaging exams are performed by mammography-certified technologists and interpreted by experienced mammography radiologists. Our clinicians are specialists in breast imaging and who interpret and perform thousands of breast imaging exams and procedures each year. They are recognized leaders in their field and are involved in teaching, locally, nationally and internationally.

What types of breast imaging services does Yale-New Haven Hospital offer?
Yale-New Haven offers screening and diagnostic mammography, breast ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, in addition to breast biopsies.

What is a screening mammogram?
A screening mammogram consists of special X-rays of the breast that can detect small growths or microcalcifications in the breast, even before they can be felt. The American Cancer Society recommends that screening mammograms exams be performed annually on all women 40 years of age or older. Women at increased risk of developing breast cancer because of family history or other reasons should talk with their doctors about the benefits of starting screening mammograms at a younger age. This exam is performed at all three locations.

What is a diagnostic mammogram?
About 10 percent of women who undergo screening mammograms are referred for a diagnostic mammogram. During a diagnostic mammogram, special X-rays are taken in greater detail of a specific area of the breast. The diagnostic mammogram is used to decide if:

• the area is normal and the patient can continue with annual screenings;
• the area should be watched more closely and an additional mammogram performed in a few months;
• Additional testing, such as a biopsy, is necessary.

What is a breast ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of a part of the body. Ultrasound can be used to evaluate many processes in the breast. Radiologists use ultrasound to see whether a breast lump is filled with liquid (cyst) or is solid. Some cysts and solid tumors may require further testing, either through cyst aspiration, needle biopsy or surgical biopsy. This procedure is performed only at the Yale Physicians Building.

What is a breast MRI?
MRI - or Magnetic Resonance Imaging - utilizes radio waves, strong magnetic fields and computer technology to generate images of the breast. MRI can be useful in the assessment of breast cancer and other breast problems, including screening high-risk patients. However, breast MRI is not recommended for breast cancer screening for women at average risk. This procedure is performed only at the Yale Physicians Building.
Read our FAQ, "What is a breast MRI?"

What is a breast biopsy or needle biopsy?
Three types of breast biopsies are performed - fine needle aspiration, core needle biopsy and needle localization. This procedure is performed only at the Yale Physicians Building

• Fine needle aspiration (FNA) - FNA is a procedure in which a thin needle on a syringe is used to draw back liquid or cells from an area of concern. The liquid and/or cells can be sent to pathology for evaluation.
• Core needle biopsy - A physician inserts a needle into the suspicious area and withdraws several samples of tissue. This can be done with mammographic (stereotactic), ultrasound, or MR guidance. The tissue samples are then analyzed under a microscope by pathologists to determine if cancer is present. The procedure takes about an hour and avoids surgical biopsy for many patients
• Needle localization - A needle with a wire is inserted into the breast by mammographic, sonographic or MR guidance to localize an area of concern for the surgeon. The patient is then brought to the operating room in order for the surgeon to remove some tissue from that localized area. This tissue is sent to pathology for evaluation.

Breast Imaging Locations:

Hours of Operation:

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Last revised: April 3, 2007 (dh)

Home page URL: http://www.ynhh.org

All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.