Galactogram/Ductogram
A galactogram, also called a ductogram, is a test done if you are having persistent nipple discharge from a single duct and your mammogram is normal.
A tiny tube is inserted into the duct and a small amount of iodine contrast dye is injected into the duct. Several mammogram images are then captured, with the ducts outlined by the iodine contrast dye. This test shows whether there is anything inside the duct that could be producing the discharge.
Planning for your procedure
You may eat a light breakfast and take your medications as usual. Do not wear deodorants, powders, or perfumes on your upper body. You will be asked to undress from the waist up, so wear a blouse, shirt, or sweater that you can easily remove rather than a dress.
You will be positioned on a table, lying on your back or sitting upright in a chair. A technologist will cleanse your skin. The radiologist then uses a plastic probe to enter the duct or area of your breast producing discharge. For this reason, it is important that discharge is present at the time of the procedure. The probe is secured to your skin as your breast is compressed and X-ray pictures are obtained; the contrast material is then injected through the probe. The radiologist will review the films and decide if additional views are necessary. The plastic probe is then removed and a gauze dressing or band-aid may be applied over the nipple to prevent discharge from coming in contact with clothing.
You may resume normal activity. You may experience an increase in breast discharge over the next 2-3 days. This is normal after this procedure, as is some tenderness at the site. If you experience redness or swelling of the breast, fever over 100.5 degrees or bloody nipple discharge that persists beyond four days, please contact your physician. The radiologist will discuss the results of your exam with you and a report of the procedure will be sent to your physician.
