Diagnostic Mammography

Diagnostic mammography is a low-dose breast X-ray performed when a woman has symptoms — a palpable lump, pain, nipple change or another clinical sign — to investigate the cause. The MEDIAG department at 1. poliklinika Karlovy Vary images on a GE Senographe Pristina, a top-tier system designed for the lowest dose on the market and greater patient comfort, with DUETA patient-assisted compression that lets the woman help control how firmly the breast is compressed. The same unit offers 3D tomosynthesis without any increase in radiation dose, giving the radiologist layered images that can reveal findings hidden on a flat 2D view. This is the only site in the Karlovy Vary region able to follow up suspicious findings with SVAB stereotactic vacuum-assisted biopsy, so sampling can be arranged at the same centre.

Diagnostic mammography is breast imaging arranged for symptomatic women — those with a palpable lump, breast pain, nipple discharge or change, skin change, or another clinical sign — to work out what is causing the problem. Unlike screening, it has no age limit and is driven by a specific clinical question; the radiologist decides whether mammography alone is enough or whether ultrasound, magnification views or biopsy are also needed to reach a confident diagnosis. At the MEDIAG radiodiagnostics department inside 1. poliklinika Karlovy Vary the exam is performed on a GE Senographe Pristina, a current-generation mammography system the department highlights for delivering one of the lowest radiation doses on the market while improving comfort. The Pristina's DUETA feature lets the patient assist with breast compression using a handheld control, which can reduce the discomfort many women associate with the exam, and the same unit can produce 3D tomosynthesis — a set of thin layered images through the breast — without increasing the dose beyond a standard 2D image. Tomosynthesis helps separate overlapping tissue and can make small lesions easier to see. During the appointment a radiology assistant positions each breast on the detector and applies brief compression while two or more views are taken; the whole exam usually takes around fifteen to twenty minutes. A key differentiator of this centre is that MEDIAG is the only site in the Karlovy Vary region performing SVAB — stereotactic vacuum-assisted breast biopsy — so if a suspicious area needs tissue sampling for histology, it can be done precisely at the same facility rather than referring you elsewhere. Who benefits: any woman with breast symptoms or a finding that needs characterising, and women being followed up after a previous abnormal result. Preparation is minimal — avoid deodorant, powder or cream on the breasts and underarms on the day, as these can mimic findings on the image — and you should bring any prior breast images for comparison. Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant. In the Czech system this is an insurance-covered procedure on a doctor's referral; visitors and self-pay patients should call ahead for a price.