Mammography Department
(978) 521-8121
New in 2007 - Digital Mammography
Merrimack Valley Hospital is pleased to announce that in our commitment to make the most advanced technology available to our patients, we have acquired a new Full Field Selenia Digital Mammography from Hologic.

MVH selected the Selenia Digital Mammography system based on its image quality, patient safety and a number of unique features that distinguish the Selenia from other digital systems. Selenia uses an amorphous selenium, direct conversion detector. This technology produces incredibly sharp digital images by completely eliminating the image-degrading effects of light diffusion found on other digital mammography systems. The system's 24 x 29 cm field of view accommodates almost all breast sizes with a single exposure and is the only system available with this feature. And lastly, Selenia offers exceptional diagnostic tools for the radiologists, which assists in providing immediate results of the mammography exam.

Private and Professional Mammogram Screenings
As a woman, you have a unique physical make-up that requires unique care. You also know that early detection can make the difference when it comes to protecting your breast health. The Mammography Department at MVH provides you with a private, comfortable setting in which you can receive professional diagnostic screening services.

Why is a Mammogram Screening so Important?
One in eight American women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. In combination with monthly self-exams and annual check-ups, mammography is considered to be the best available method for early breast cancer detection. Screenings can often identify treatable or removable tumors up to five years before they would be found during a self-exam. It is recommended that women over the age of 40 have an annual mammogram screening.

A mammogram is an x-ray that gives a picture of the internal structure of the breast. There are two types of mammography: screening and diagnostic. Screening mammography is performed on asymptomatic women to check for undetected tumors. Diagnostic mammography is used to follow up on breast abnormalities detected during a self-exam or check-up.

What to Expect During Your Mammogram
First, you will be asked to undress from the waist up. A technologist will then place your breast between two plates and compress them to take the x-ray. With your comfort in mind, uses MammoPads single-use foam cushions, which offer a warmer and softer barrier between the surfaces and edges of the mammography device. The experience is more comfortable, without impacting the clarity of the screening. Your mammogram report will then be forwarded to your primary healthcare provider for review within 7-10 days.

How to Schedule an Appointment
To schedule a mammogram, please call  scheduling at (978) 521-8121. Ask your doctor to refer you to MVH, or call us directly and we can help facilitate an appropriate referral. For added convenience, your doctor can book your Bone Density Screening and Mammogram back-to-back on the same day. Procedures are covered by most health insurance programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, Managed Care/HMO's, Commercial Insurance, and private pay.

Digital Mammography Hours:
7:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Monday
7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday
8:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Thursday
8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday
7:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Saturday

*The MVH Mammography facility is certified by the American College of Radiology, the Mammography Quality Standards Act, and is licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.