The purpose of a second opinion is to obtain a comprehensive, independent review of breast cancer diagnosis and the planned course of treatment. It is essential that women have confidence in their physicians and cancer treatment teams before proceeding with treatment. Some gynecologists have mammogram equipment in their offices, but mammogram films are typically interpreted by radiologists, especially when a lump or other suspicious area is found. Radiologists may specialize in a variety of areas. In most cases, a technologist will organize and perform mammography or breast ultrasound , and the radiologist will read the results.
Some radiologists also perform image guided breast biopsies .
Radiologists who must intervene with a patient by surgery or other means to conduct an imaging test are called interventional radiologists. An oncologist is a medical doctor who trains in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. If a radiologist detects breast cancer, a woman may be referred to an oncologist for treatment. Medical oncologists specialize in the use of chemotherapy and other drugs to treat cancer. Radiation oncologists specialize in the use of x-rays and other radiation methods to kill tumors.