How is a Ductogram performed?

This test is performed by injecting a small amount of contrast material into a duct opening in your nipple. It is used to determine if there is any abnormality of the duct, a growth inside the duct or blockage of the duct. It is usually performed to evaluate bloody discharge from your nipple.

How long does a Ductogram take?

A ductogram takes place in a hospital or radiology clinic and typically lasts about 20 minutes to an hour. The procedure typically involves these steps: After removing clothing from the waist up, you may be asked to change into a gown and lie on an exam table.

Is galactogram painful?

A galactogram can be a bit uncomfortable, but usually not painful. A galactogram can be painful if there is not enough discharge. This makes it harder to find the opening of the milk duct.

What is the role of Ductogram and galactogram in breast cancer imaging?

A ductogram, or galactogram, is used to acquire images of the lumen of an individual duct and can help determine the cause of nipple discharge. In this procedure, a fine plastic tube (30-gauge) is placed into the opening of the suspected duct in the nipple.

How is a ductogram of the breast performed?

A ductogram of the breast is a procedure in which contrast material (Omnipaque) is injected into a breast duct. The duct system of the breast can then be visualized. A ductogram is performed to assist your physician in assessing your breast discharge. You may eat a light breakfast and take your medications as usual.

Can a ductogram be done if you have no discharge?

If you don’t have any discharge when you go for the ductogram, the test can’t be done and you may need to re-schedule it. Some of your ducts can’t be dilated because they’re too small. The test cannot detect a tumor that lies outside of the duct, so a negative result doesn’t mean you’re cancer-free.

What kind of equipment is used for a ductogram?

Next, tape will be placed around the point of entry to stabilize the cannula in preparation for the gentile mammogram. The radiologist will carefully exam the breast using mammography equipment. The contrast material applied in the ductogram allows the radiologist to examine the internal structure of the breast’s duct using X-ray technology.

How long does it take to get a ductogram done?

A ductogram typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes. Be sure you arrive early enough to get checked in before your appointment time. You’ll also need to change into a gown before the procedure and get dressed again afterward.