Atlas of breast cancer early detection

The cleavage view, also called the valley view, shows the medial breast tissues adjacent to the sternum. The medial breast tissue is almost always completely included in the CC view. However, if a medial lesion is suspected, the cleavage view is a better option than the XCCM view for maximum medial breast tissue visualization and is easily positioned for lesions at the sternal end of the breast, which are sometimes missed in CC views.

Steps to obtain the cleavage view

1. Place both the breasts on the detector and pull them away from the chest wall.
2. The technologist stands behind the patient and pushes both breasts onto the detector to get optimal position and the best view of the breast tissue adjacent to the sternum.
3. Apply adequate breast compression, step behind the protective lead shield and obtain the exposure.