Four MedStar Health Hospitals Now Offer Contrast-Enhanced Mammography for Hard-to-See Cancers

Advanced breast imaging expands access to cancer detection and follow-up care across the Washington-Baltimore region.

WASHINGTON — More patients across the Washington-Baltimore region now have access to contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM), an advanced breast imaging exam that can reveal cancers that may be difficult to see on a standard mammogram.

Contrast-enhanced mammography combines a standard mammogram with an intravenous contrast agent that helps highlight areas of concern within the breast. It may be used to further evaluate findings from a screening mammogram and can be especially helpful for women with dense breast tissue. For some patients, it also offers an alternative to breast MRI.

The exam just became available at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. MedStar Union Memorial Hospital first launched contrast-enhanced mammography in 2024. It is also available at MedStar Washington Hospital Center and MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital in Baltimore.

“Contrast-enhanced imaging provides another powerful option when we need more information than a standard mammogram can provide,” said Brooke Wolvin, MD, diagnostic radiologist with MedStar Health. “It’s a next-generation mammography technique that can help us identify cancers that might otherwise be difficult to see, allowing us to move more quickly toward answers and next steps for our patients.”

CEM is performed much like a standard mammogram. Patients remain standing, and the images are taken in the mammography suite. The primary difference is that a contrast agent is administered through an IV beforehand to help illuminate suspicious breast tissue. The exam typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes after the contrast is given.

“Making CEM available at more locations means more women can benefit from advanced breast imaging in the communities where they live and receive care,” said Michelle Townsend Day, MD, diagnostic radiologist with MedStar Health. “By expanding access to this technology, we’re helping patients get timely answers and expert breast care closer to home.”

About half of women age 40 and older have dense breast tissue, making expanded access to advanced breast imaging particularly important. Patients interested in learning more about CEM should speak with their physician.