When you need more tests

Most of the changes which show up on a mammogram are not cancer and most women we call back do not have breast cancer.

Sometimes we need to call women back because of a technical fault. We will tell you if this is the reason.

We call back about one in every 20 women that we screen because the appearance on the x-ray suggests that more tests are needed. These tests may include more mammograms, a clinical examination, an ultrasound scan and possibly a needle biopsy.

Further specialised mammograms

A radiographer will take more views of the breast.

Breast examination

Most women we call back are offered a breast examination by a specialist doctor. Frequently the examination and the further mammograms show that the initial abnormalities are harmless.

Ultrasound scan

A radiologist will put some gel onto the skin and will pass a plastic paddle over the surface to create a more detailed image of the breast tissue.

Biopsy

A trained specialist will take a small sample of tissue using a special needle, this is usually done using a local anaesthetic.

Although some women will be told their results before leaving the screening centre, the results of a biopsy will take longer.

Only a few women recalled will have cancer diagnosed.

What if I need treatment?

If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, finding it early gives the best chance of successful treatment. We fully discuss the options with you and agree arrangements for your treatment.