Mammography Van

Regular screenings for breast cancer help reduce your risk of cancer spreading, making it easier to treat with positive results. Studies have shown that if you start receiving annual screenings at age 40, you can reduce your risk of mortality by up to 41%.

Most women who get breast cancer don’t have a family history of the disease, so it’s important to get screened annually even if you don’t think you are at high risk. 

A 3D mammogram (also known as breast tomosynthesis) is a screening exam that involves multiple X-ray images of the breast taken from different angles. Then, a computer uses those images to create a 3D representation of the breast. 

The benefit of tomosynthesis is that it separates overlapping tissues, making it easier to see abnormalities. 

While there isn’t much you need to do to prepare for your appointment, a few things will make your appointment run smoothly: 

• Scheduling the screening the week after your period may be more comfortable since your breasts are not as tender. 
• Wearing a two-piece outfit will allow you to keep your bottoms on during the exam.
• Avoid deodorant, perfumes, and lotions on the day of your appointment, as these might interfere with the imaging. We provide wipes in the changing area in case you forget. 

The screening takes place in a 40-foot van, offering a comfortable and private location to undergo imaging. 
When you first arrive, a specialist will review your insurance and paperwork. If you are not insured, they will work with you on other options so that cost is not a barrier to getting screened. 
You will then receive a gown that opens in the front, and you can change in one of the private changing rooms. 
Once you’ve changed, you will speak with a Siteman mammography technologist who will ask you a few questions about your medical history before conducting the 3D mammography.

At the mammography van, breast cancer imaging technologists will perform the procedure. 
All radiology technologists on staff have advanced certification in breast mammography and have undergone rigorous training in breast anatomy and physiology, positioning, and compression. 

WashU Medicine radiologists who subspecialize in breast cancer health care and research review every Siteman mammogram. They are internationally recognized and board-certified to provide the highest level of precision in imaging interpretation.

If your results are flagged with abnormalities, that does not necessarily mean you have cancer. Follow-up tests that may be used to rule out cancer include a diagnostic mammogram, a breast ultrasound, or an MRI. Based on the results of your follow-up test, you may need a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis.

You can receive a mammogram in all of those circumstances; however, you should schedule your appointment at a Siteman location, not the mammography van, and make sure to tell your technologist before the exam begins. 

• Silicone and saline implants can make it difficult to see breast tissue, so radiologists might take more images if you have implants than they would in the van. 
• If you are pregnant, medical staff will place a lead shield over your belly to keep the radiation from reaching the womb. 
• If you are breastfeeding, we recommend you nurse or pump immediately before the exam to allow for the best images. 

The van does not have a motorized lift for people who use wheelchairs. If you use a wheelchair and need a mammogram, reach out to us to schedule an appointment at one of our Siteman facilities.  

Most health insurance plans cover the cost of cancer screenings, but you should call your insurance carrier before your appointment to confirm whether it will cover the cost. Patients on Medicare can call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit their website for more information. 

No-cost mammograms are available for underinsured and uninsured women who qualify for the Breast Health Outreach Program at the Joanne Knight Breast Health Center. Reach out to BJC HealthCare at 314-454-8466 for more information.