― Reasons Why You Need Another Test
― You may be offered some or all of the following tests
― Contact us
You have been asked to come back to the Breast Test Wales Centre for more tests as we need to investigate possible abnormal changes which have shown up on your recent mammograms (breast x-rays).
Mammograms are read by specially trained film readers. Sometimes, it can be difficult to tell between harmless changes (such as cysts and fibrous lumps) and cancers, without doing more tests at the assessment clinic.
Most of the changes which show up on a mammogram are not cancer and most women we call back do not have breast cancer. Sometimes we need to carry out some
further tests to check whether the changes shown on your mammogram are harmless or not.
These tests take time and you may need to spend most of the morning or afternoon at the screening centre. Most women find it easier if they wear a top, with a skirt or
trousers.
You are welcome to bring someone with you when you visit the screening centre. They will not be able to go with you into the screening suite but they can join you when you see the consultant.
Further specialised mammograms. A radiographer will take more x-rays of your breast and will answer any questions you have.
Breast examination. Most women we call back are offered a breast examination by a specialist. The examination and the further mammograms will often show that
any changes are harmless. You will then be reassured and advised by the specialist if further follow-up is needed.
Ultrasound scan. A trained specialist will put some gel onto your breast and move a plastic probe over the surface to create an ultrasound image of the breast tissue.
Biopsy. A trained specialist will take a small sample of tissue from your breast and sometimes the armpit using a special needle, usually done using a local anaesthetic
Rare adverse events associated with biopsy can include; occasions when the biopsy needs to be repeated, infection, bruising that may rarely be severe or need surgical
drainage, damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the armpit or damage to breast implants. Reactions to local anaesthetic are rare. Puncture of the chest wall with damage to the lungs or heart is very rare.
In the unusual event that you might notice new symptoms leaving you light-headed or affecting your breathing or pulse after a biopsy, please contact your GP or emergency service provider for advice.
You may be told the results before you leave the screening centre, but the results of a biopsy will take longer. You will be given an appointment to return for the results of a biopsy before you leave, which may be up to a week or two later.
Only a few women that are called back for tests will have cancer. If you have cancer your specialist breast surgeon will talk to you about your treatment choices. You will also be given support by a specialist breast care nurse.
Early diagnosis offers the best chance of a full recovery. Most cases of breast cancer found early are treated successfully.
Screening does not prevent cancer and like most tests it is not 100% accurate. This means that some cancers may not be found. It can also mean that some women may have unnecessary checks or tests.
Please read the attached letter carefully to find out where and when to come for your appointment.
Visit our Contact us page.
We welcome correspondence and phone calls in Welsh. We will respond to correspondence in Welsh without delay.