Changing Breast Care Forever
Why the switch to digital?
Digital mammography was developed for many important reasons. A digital system transfers images to a computer so they can be electronically enhanced. Your doctor can zoom in, magnify and optimize different parts of the breast tissue using just four standard pictures. Special software allows your doctor to view the entire breast on one image.
How do digital mammograms differ from conventional film?
The steps involved from your perspective will be very similar. How the images are captured and what healthcare providers can do with them sets digital apart. Digital mammograms allow your doctor to focus in on the areas of concern, which enhance readability and interpretation of the image. Digital also allows the images to be stored and transferred throughout the care network.
How does the CAD second look over read program benefit me?
Every mammogram read by the Radiologist at Morris County Hospital is over read by a computer-aided detection (CAD) system. This second look breast cancer detection system delivers superior performance and accurate detection of elusive early-stage cancers. The unique system algorithms detect potential cancers by identifying patented artificial intelligence and pattern recognition technology to analyze images and identify patterns. Sophisticated mathematical analysis identifies and marks suspicious areas without obscuring the underlying image, enabling faster, more accurate reading.
I’ve heard that digital mammography is better for patients who have dense breasts. What is the difference between dense and fatty breasts?
Your breast contains varying amounts of glandular (dense) tissue and fatty tissue. The more glandular tissue, the denser the breast. Digital mammography is better for imaging dense breast tissue than a traditional film method.
How long will a mammogram take?
It will take about 10 to 15 minutes for your healthcare provider to acquire the images. The compression and positioning are the same as traditional mammography but with less waiting time and far fewer call backs – a 20 percent to 30 percent reduction in call backs. Your technologist will know right away if the image positioning is correct.
Does a digital mammogram involve any radiation?
The amount of radiation you’ll receive is approximately the same as with a traditional film mammogram, but may be less if you have very dense breast tissue.
Is there anything I can do to make the exam go more smoothly?
It’s best not to wear deodorant or powder the day of your exam since it could affect the image. Also, wear a two-piece outfit because you’ll need to undress from the waist up. And schedule your mammogram shortly after the end of your period to ease any discomfort.
Scheduling an appointment:
Morris County Hospital Radiology Scheduling:
620-767-6811 Ext.121
A Physician Order is required, orders from a Kansas Licensed physician are accepted.
Early Detection is on your side:
Every day we learn more about beast cancer and how to win the battle. One fact is very clear– the distinct advantage of early detection. Fortunately, breast cancer is highly detectable through digital mammography screening. If breast cancer is detected early, before it spreads, 98 percent of the women will be alive five years later. The earlier it’s discovered, the earlier it’s treated, the better your chance of survival.
The American Cancer Society recommends:
Women over 40:
• Get an annual mammogram
• Obtain an annual clinical breast exam by a healthcare professional
• Perform monthly breast self-exams
Women 20–39:
• Obtain a clinical breast exam by a healthcare professional every three years
• Perform monthly breast self-exams
To reduce your risk of breast cancer:
• Breastfeed your children
• Limit your alcohol intake
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
To learn more:
American Cancer Society:
www.cancer.org
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation:
www.komen.org
American Breast Cancer Foundation:
www.abcf.org
National Breast Cancer Coalition:
www.natlbcc.org
www.breastcancer.org