Imaging Associates is proud to be a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence (BICOE) – the newest in Anchorage, which covers Eagle River and the only BICOE in the Mat-Su Valley, a designation earned by the American College of Radiology.Every aspect of Imaging Associates was designed with your comfort in mind. From the peaceful, relaxing atmosphere to the best technology available that make your procedures quick and efficient, your images crystal clear, and your whole experience a positive one.Your studies are read (and procedures performed) by physicians with specialized training in breast and women’s imaging. Led by board-certified, fellowship-trained breast imaging specialist Brittany O’Steen, M.D., Imaging Associates features an entire team of radiologists to meet your needs in a timely fashion.• Friendly and highly experienced mammographers• Free, easy parking and lots of it• Non-hospital locations – Providence Drive in Anchorage or Trunk Road near Matsu Regional Medical Center• With our 25 minute promise, we strive to have you in and out in 25 minutes or less• After-hours Mammogram Socials available at no extra charge

A mammogram is a special low-dose X-ray of the breast. A physician called a radiologist uses the images to detect breast cancer, ideally as early as two years before a lump can be felt. Digital mammography has become the gold standard for breast cancer screening and is one of the most recent advances for breast cancer detection.Current guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the American Cancer Society (ACS), the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend screening mammography every year for women, beginning at age 40.Mammography is the only screening method that is consistently proven to reduce breast cancer deaths. In fact, it is the major reason breast cancer deaths have declined by 30% since 1990, when screening guidelines were enforced in the U.S. In addition, early detection through mammography gives women more treatment options with reduced surgery, better cosmetic outcomes, and often eliminates the need for harsh therapies. And since breast cancer found in women under age 50 is often more aggressive, it’s imperative to schedule your mammogram every 12 months.

If performed annually as recommended, screening mammography is the key to detecting breast cancer early and saving lives. Women 40 years of age and older with no symptoms of breast disease should schedule their screening mammogram appointments annually. A physician referral is not required for this exam; however we must have the name of your physician to send your results. If you are experiencing a worrisome lump, changes in the breast skin, nipple discharge, or if you have a personal history of breast cancer, your physician should order a more comprehensive exam, called a diagnostic mammogram.

There are no special preparations needed, other than not wearing deodorant, lotions, baby oil or talcum powder on or around your breasts or underarms on the day of your exam.

A typical mammogram consists of two views of each breast in which they are pressed firmly between two plastic plates. The complete procedure takes only a few minutes, performed by a board-certified mammographer who will do everything she can to make your exam as quick and comfortable as possible. After the exam, your breasts may be slightly red and tender for a few hours, but this will fade quickly.

• If your breasts get tender around your period, avoid scheduling your mammogram for that time.• Do not wear deodorant, lotion, oils or talcum powder.• Wear a comfortable outfit, with a separate top that you can easily slip on and off. (If you forget, we have full robes you can wear instead of just our upper body cape.)• Relax and know that we’ll take good care of you!

Organize your office or get your gal pals together and come in to Imaging Associates after hours for wine, hors d’oeuvres and screening mammograms. Whether you need your annual or first (baseline) mammogram, you’re sure to have a good time.For more information and to schedule your mammogram social, call Angela Balos (907) 565-9082.

A final report, produced by one of Alaska Radiology Associate’s local specialized radiologists, will be available for most exams within two hours. Questions about your results should be directed to your referring health care provider. For any other questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us directly.

Questions about the results of your exam should be directed to your primary health care provider. For any other questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us directly.For more information about breast imaging click here.