Benign or malignant breast cancer is only diagnosed after numerous diagnostic procedures. A detailed breast cancer diagnosis enables the patient to find the best therapy for their clinical picture. At the Bern Biel Breast Centre, we provide numerous diagnostic procedures, in particular mammograms for the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer.
Breast cancer diagnostic options
Many breast findings are benign and can be clarified with a high-resolution ultrasound. If necessary, further examinations such as a digital mammogram or a breast MRI can be performed. If the patient's clinical picture is still unclear, the findings can be clarified in detail with a small biopsy, which we perform with the assistance of ultrasound in our practice.
If the findings are benign, surgical intervention is often unnecessary. A check-up is usually sufficient in this case. If the finding grows or is very uncomfortable, it can be removed in a minimally invasive procedure involving a vacuum biopsy or with a small operation on an outpatient basis.
Further information on the Institute of Radiology at Salem-Spital
Further information on the Radiology Centre at Klinik Linde
Mammograms
Mammography is the most important method for detecting breast cancer early in women over 50. If breast cancer is discovered early, treatment is often easier and the women affected are generally more likely to survive.
A mammogram is a special X-ray examination that can show changes in the breast before they are palpable.
When is a mammogram performed?
A distinction is made between a diagnostic mammogram and a screening or preventive mammogram.
Diagnostic mammograms
A mammogram is used as an examination method when there is a symptom or a palpable finding in the breast.
Screening or preventive mammograms
This type of mammogram is an early detection method for breast cancer and its preliminary stages. The patient and her doctor have no reason to suspect that she may have cancer. The Cancer League recommends that women between the ages of 40 and 50 have a standard mammogram as a precaution and for later comparison purposes. From the age of 50, it is advisable to have a mammogram every two years. Women with a family-related risk should undergo an individual, defined procedure with their gynaecologist.