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Ductogram

Definitions:

Duct

A hollow passage in the breast through which milk passes. The duct takes milk, from the milk gland (lobule) where it is produced, to the nipple.

Ductogram

An injection into a duct to find the origin of discharge from the nipple.

Cannula

A blunt or dull flexible catheter.

Goal of Procedure:

• Nipple discharge can occur for many reasons but should be evaluated by a physician. Your physician has recommended a ductogram as a method of identifying which milk ducts are causing your nipple discharge. If removal of the discharging duct is recommended, the procedure may be repeated on the day of surgery.

Overview of Procedure:

• The ductogram is performed by first cleansing the nipple area with an antiseptic. To find which duct is leaking the radiologist presses gently on the nipple and watches which duct is leaking fluid. After the discharging duct is found, a cannula is inserted into the duct. This is usually done easily since the discharging duct tends to be enlarged. A dye is then injected through the cannula into the duct. This often causes a feeling of fullness in the breast but generally no sharp pain. Breast x-rays (mammograms) are done after the injection of dye.

Where to Come for the Procedure:

• The ductogram procedure is performed in the Breast Imaging Department. This is located on level B2 of the Cancer Center Building. The phone number to the department (734) 936-6274.

Length of Procedure:

• The entire procedure generally takes 30 to 45 minutes.

Instructions:

Before the Procedure:

• Do not attempt to express discharge from the nipple yourself, but if the nipple drainage suddenly stops on the day of the procedure, please call the Breast Imaging Department at (734) 936-6274 and ask to speak with a nurse or doctor.

After the Procedure:

• In general, there are no special instructions following a ductogram. You will be able to return to normal daily activities immediately after the procedure.

Problems You May Encounter:

• Although complications are rare, they can include infection and bleeding from the nipple.

Who to Call for Questions:

• Please notify the Breast Imaging Department at (734) 936-6274 regarding any questions or problems you may have related to the ductogram.

  You should notify the department if you develop:

  • A temperature higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Bleeding from the nipple that will not stop
  • Swelling of the breast
  • Any unusual symptoms that concern you

Results of the Procedure:

• The procedure results will be made available to your physician within 24 hours. You should contact the office of your physician to obtain the results.

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See Also:

• Childhood Cancer Survivors
• UMCCC Clinical Trials

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University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center
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