Our Women’s Imaging Department is the only provider of a complete breast imaging service in one location on the Sunshine Coast. We utilise the latest in breast imaging technology, including the new Siemens MAMMOMAT B.brilliant 3D Mammography system with access to Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM), breast MRI, breast ultrasound, digital PET/CT, SPECT/CT and interventional procedures such as biopsies, FNAs, and lymphoscintigraphy.
Our MAMMOMAT B.brilliant system offers exceptional image quality at a lower radiation dose, while also incorporating advanced comfort features to reduce patient anxiety. Its intelligent design streamlines workflow, allowing earlier detection and greater reassurance for patients.
What this means for our patients:
We kindly ask all women under 70 who have not completed one previously to complete a quick, confidential online breast cancer risk assessment before your mammogram. This information is essential because, by combining your age, calculated risk level, and mammographic density, our specialist radiologists can provide evidence-based, personalised recommendations for your ongoing breast screening utilising either 3D mammography, 3D contrast-enhanced mammography, ultrasound and/or MRI.
Please complete the assessment using iPrevent Risk Assessment and email to info@gympieradiology.com.au
Breast ultrasound is an excellent imaging technique for determining whether a breast mass, identified on physical exam or through mammography, is filled with fluid or is solid. Breast ultrasound, however, is less effective at searching the breast tissue for unknown abnormalities and therefore is not a substitute for a mammographic examination. In many cases, additional breast and lymph node diagnostic information is obtained using high-resolution ultrasound, which can help further clarify the nature of breast or lymph node lesions. Breast ultrasound is increasingly employed to provide additional, complementary, diagnostic information to mammography.
Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a safe and highly sensitive tool for imaging breasts. Breast MRI obtains high resolution images without compression or radiation. However, for the majority of patients, it does not replace routine mammograms. Magnetic resonance mammography is a valuable and highly sensitive tool for:
In some cases when an abnormality is detected , it is not possible to tell from the imaging studies alone whether it is benign or cancerous. In these cases, ultrasound breast biopsy is a highly accurate and minimally invasive way to provide the answer.
Breast Hookwire Localisation is performed to assist your surgeon to localise a particular area in your breast, prior to surgery. The area to be localised may be visible on your mammogram or ultrasound, but cannot be felt by your surgeon. A fine wire, called a hookwire, is inserted into the breast using x-ray or ultrasound guidance. Your surgeon uses this wire as a guide to find the area in your breast to be removed.
Every woman’s breast cancer risk is unique. Factors such as breast density, family history, and personal medical history all play an important role. Screening recommendations differ depending on whether you fall into a normal, moderate, or high-risk category. For women at higher risk, additional imaging — such as breast MRI — may be advised as part of a more comprehensive screening plan.
Please be aware that all Breast Imaging examinations require an appointment. Please call us to arrange an appointment.
What to bring:
Please wear a two-piece outfit. No deodorant, hairspray, talcum powder or body cream with glitter should be worn on the day of your examination. 3D mammography is sensitive and artifacts on the skin surface may be produced by these products. Facilities are available on-site for you to apply these products following your examination.
The appearance of the breast on a mammogram varies tremendously from woman to woman, and no two mammograms are alike. Please tell us if you have had previous breast imaging. It is extremely helpful for the radiologist to have access to any previous examinations for comparison purposes. This will help the doctor to recognise small changes that occur gradually over time and detect a cancer as early as possible. For breast MRI a contrast dye called gadolinium is required and you may be asked to fast prior to the examination. Our friendly team will let you know in advance and specific preparation.
Please tell us if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
The main reasons for Breast Imaging examinations are:
On arrival, our reception staff will ask you to read and sign a consent form that relates to the procedure you are having. You may be asked to change into a gown and remove any metal objects or jewellery.
During mammography, the technologist will position and image each breast separately. Each breast is carefully positioned on a special detector plate and then gently compressed with a paddle. This compression flattens the breast so that the maximum amount of tissue can be imaged and examined. Patients should feel firm pressure due to compression but no significant pain. If you feel pain, please inform the technologist.
Our radiologists are involved in every case at the time of the exam. If any additional imaging is required, we make every effort to obtain it at that time, as opposed to having patients return for further imaging or biopsy.
More information for your specific examination see the ‘Related information’ in this section.
The images obtained are digitally recorded. At Gympie Radiology our highly trained and qualified Radiologists interpret the images and provides a report for your doctor and/or referring health care provider within 24 hours.
You will need to make a follow up appointment to discuss biopsy results with your referring practitioner. Pathology results can take 3-7 days to reach your referring practitioner. Your doctor can access your report and images electronically via a secure portal and you will be able to access your images via our patient portal.
Please note our adjusted hours over the Easter period:
Good Friday (April 18): Closed
Easter Saturday (April 19) Closed
Easter Sunday (April 20): Closed
Easter Monday (April 21): Closed
Normal hours resume from Tuesday, 22 April.
Wishing you and your family a safe and joyful Easter!
