Coming for assessment?

Why have I been invited back for further assessment?

You have been invited back to the breast assessment clinic because we need more detail about an area we have seen on your mammogram (breast x-rays). Therefore, you need a more detailed examination before we can decide on a result.

This additional appointment is part of routine screening and for most women invited back nothing of concern will be found. Our assessment clinics are held at the your nearest assessment centre as identified on your invitation letter click here for more details on how to find us.

Can I speak to someone for more information before I come?

If you would like specific information about the reason you have been invited back you may find it helpful to speak to one of our breast care nurses. The breast care nurse will have access to your records and will be able to give more personal information. Please feel free to contact the breast care nurse on 020 3758 2024 .

How many women are invited for assessment tests?

About 5 out of every 100 women who have screening will be invited for this additional assessment. 4 out of 5 of these women will be found to have a normal result.

What will happen at the clinic?

On arrival most women will meet a breast care nurse who will explain what will happen during the clinic.

You may have some or all of the following tests:

Breast examination: the doctor / practitioner will talk to you about your mammograms, will ask you some questions about your general health and will then examine your breasts.

Mammograms: most women will have further mammograms in order to show a particular part of the breast in greater detail.

Breast ultrasound: Most women will have a breast ultrasound scan. An ultrasound scan uses sound waves to provide a picture of the breast tissue. It does not involve x-rays.

Breast needle biopsy: It may be necessary for some women to have a small sample of tissue taken from the breast. Local anaesthetic is always used to numb the area first.

When will I get the results?

The doctor or practitioner will explain your mammogram and ultrasound scan results to you at the assessment clinic. If you have a needle biopsy your result will be ready in 7 to 10 days. We will make you an appointment to get your biopsy results before you leave the clinic.

How long will I be at the clinic?

Your appointment may take between 2 and 5 hours. This is because we aim to do all the necessary tests at the same appointment. As you are likely to be in the clinic for some time, you may wish to bring a friend or relative to sit with you while you wait.

We appreciate that it may be worrying to be invited for a further appointment but please remember that the majority of women (4 out of every 5) that come back to this assessment clinic are found to have a normal result.