Contrast Enhanced Mammography (C.E.M.)
What Is Contrast Enhanced Mammography (C.E.M.) and Why is It Important?
A Contrast-Enhanced Mammogram (CEM) is a type of mammogram that uses iodinated contrast dye to make it easier to find new blood vessels that form when cancers grow. This dye helps highlight areas that might be missed on a regular mammogram.
When is a C.E.M. needed?
Your doctor may recommend a CEM to:
- Screen for breast cancer, especially in people at higher risk or those with dense breasts.
- Check any lumps found during a physical exam.
- Examine a breast where cancer has been found.
- Monitor the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, which is given before breast surgery to shrink tumors or stop cancer from spreading.
Benefits of a C.E.M.
- A CEM can detect breast cancers that are not visible on a regular mammogram.
- It is particularly useful for people with dense breast tissue.
Overview of the Exam
- Preparation: Avoid deodorant, lotion, cream, powder, talc, oils, perfume, or cologne before the exam. Eat a light meal to avoid mild nausea from the contrast.
- Contrast Administration: Contrast is usually given through an IV line in your arm or hand.
- During the Exam: You may feel warm, tingly feeling when the contrast is administered. The CEM will start a few minutes after the contrast is given.
- Duration: The exam takes a little longer than a regular mammogram due to the contrast administration.
- After the Exam: Drink 6 to 8 cups of water in the 24 hours following the exam to help flush the contrast from your body.
Why Should I Choose KCBC for my Mammograms?
Knoxville Comprehensive Breast Center is committed to saving lives from breast cancer and breast disease. Our empathetic doctors and staff treat our patients with the respect they deserve, taking the time to answer questions and understand your specific concerns to ensure your comfort with our individualized treatment plans. We draw upon several decades of collective experience to diagnose and treat breast cancer effectively and compassionately. Our comprehensive services include screening mammograms, breast ultrasounds, breast MRIs, image-guided biopsies, second opinion evaluations, cryoablation, and bone densitometry. We also carry comfortable mastectomy bras, post-operation camisoles, wigs, breast prosthetics, compression garments, and more in our boutique, with custom-fitting appointments available to ensure you always get the right fit.