Breast Diagnostic Center at St. Joseph Health - College Station, TX

Our diagnostic exams include X-ray, fluoroscopy, mammography, ultrasound, MRI or magnetic resonance imaging, CT scans and nuclear medicine. Our board-certified radiologists are committed to accurate diagnosis and the highest standard of patient safety and care.

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You do not typically need a doctor's order for a screening mammogram if you are age 40 or older. However, a doctor's order is required for diagnostic mammograms, women under 40 and all other types of breast imaging and procedures.

You may be asked about your medical history and any symptoms you're experiencing. Depending on the test, you may need to change into a gown or remain still during the procedure. Our staff will guide you through each step.

The duration of your exam will depend on the type of imaging procedure. Most exams take between 15 and 45 minutes, but more complex procedures like MRIs may take longer.

Yes, imaging exams are generally safe. Our team follows strict safety protocols to minimize any risks. For certain tests, like X-rays or CT scans, we use the lowest possible radiation dose.

Most imaging exams are painless. Some, like MRIs, may require you to lie still for a period, which can feel uncomfortable for some people. If you have concerns, let us know, and we'll do our best to make you comfortable.

Preparation depends on the type of exam. For some, like X-rays, no preparation is needed. For others, like MRIs or CT scans, you may need to avoid eating or drinking beforehand. We’ll provide specific instructions ahead of time.

A 3D mammogram takes pictures of the breast from different angles, which gives a clearer view of any abnormalities. It can be especially helpful for women with dense breast tissue.

Some women feel slight pressure during a mammogram, but any possible discomfort is temporary. Ask your provider for tips or recommendations, such as over-the-counter pain relief medication, to help put your mind at ease. Let the technologist know if you feel any discomfort.

What you wear to your mammogram can help make the process smoother. Wear a two-piece outfit, like a top with pants or a skirt, so you can keep your bottoms on during the exam. Please avoid wearing deodorant, lotion or powder under your arms, as these can affect the imaging results.

A breast MRI is an imaging test that uses magnets and radio waves to capture detailed breast images. It’s often used for high-risk patients, to look closer at areas that a mammogram can’t show clearly and as a screening tool in conjunction with 3D mammography for patients with dense breasts.

If a mammogram or breast ultrasound shows something that needs a closer look, we may recommend a biopsy. This simple test involves taking a small tissue sample from the breast to check for cancer cells or other conditions, such as breast lumps, uneven areas, scarring, tiny calcium deposits, complex cysts or abscesses.

All imaging results are reviewed by our board-certified radiologists, who provide a detailed report to your referring physician. Your doctor will then discuss the results with you and coordinate any necessary follow-up care or appointments.

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Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover screening mammograms. Check with your provider for details on coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.

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Yes, we can send exam reports to multiple locations. Just let our registration staff and technologist know where you’d like them sent.