Benefits and Risks of Galactography– Southwest Medical Imaging

Existing Users:

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Benefits and Risks – Galactography

Benefits

Galactography exams can find small cancerous and non-cancerous masses that cannot be identified in any other way so that they may be removed at an early stage.
A galactogram, or image from a Galactography exam, identifies the location of the tumors in the breast for the surgeon.

Risks

Galactography is a minimally invasive procedure meaning there is a chance for infection if sterile practice is not followed.
It is possible to injure the duct, either during the process of placing the catheter or while injecting contrast material. This almost always heals on its own.
It is possible to miss the area of concern, or to put the catheter into the incorrect duct, potentially delaying the diagnosis.
Women should always inform SMIL if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.