Shady Grove Radiology announces the addition of Digital Mammography to our Breast Imaging Services.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, exceeded only by lung cancer. Statistics demonstrate that one in eight women will develop breast cancer sometime in her life. The stage at which breast cancer is detected influences a woman’s survival. If detected early, the five-year survival rate is 97%.

Studies have proven that Mammography’s is the best method of early breast cancer detection and that screening mammography reduces the rate of death from breast caners among women who are 40 years of age or older. However, traditional screen-film mammography is limited in its ability to detect some cancers especially those occurring in women with radiographically “dense” breast. Two recent enhancements to traditional mammography include digital mammography and computer-aided detection (CAD).

What is Digital Mammography?

From the patient’s point of view, a digital mammogram is like traditional film screen mammography. Both use x-ray to generate images of the breast. However, instead of using film to capture and record the image, a digital mammogram uses a special detector to capture and convert x-ray energy into a digital image. The resulting digital images are immediately available to the radiologist for diagnosis.

The radiologist can view and manipulate the images on high-resolution computer monitors that enhance visualization of the structures within the breast tissue. They can also adjust brightness and contrast, and zoom in on specific areas to help detect small calcifications, masses, and other changes that may be signs of early cancer. Our goal is provide the best possible care to women.

Digital mammography offers a number of other practical advantages and patient conveniences. Because there is no waiting for film to be developed it can significantly reduce the time patients spend in the breast center, as well as reduce the need for repeat exams due to under or over exposure. Digital images are easily stored and transferred electronically, eliminating the dependency on one set of original films, and making it easy for us to give patients copies when necessary.

What is CAD?

Computerized-aided detection (CAD) systems utilized computer software to search for abnormal areas of density, mass or calcification on the digital mammography images. CAD systems then highlight the areas, alerting the radiologist who can then determine if further analysis is necessary. CAD, act as a second set of eyes to enhance the radiologist's evaluation.

How to prepare for your Digital mammography?

Please plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment for patient registration. We ask that you wear no powder or deodorant in the breast or underarm area which can cause artifact on the mammogram.

Comparing a mammogram with previously obtained images greatly enhances the accuracy of evaluation which benefits the patient. If possible, obtain prior mammograms and make them available to the radiologist at the time of the current exam.

If you have sensitive breasts, schedule your mammogram at a time of the month when your breast will be less tender.

Shady Grove Radiologists are all board certified, experienced in breast imaging, assuring quality in diagnostic evaluation for their patients.

Shady Grove Radiology's experience in breast imaging gives patients the assurance that they receive the best quality care for diagnosis. If you would like to schedule a mammogram or have questions about this important breast health procedure, please contact our scheduling department at (301) 590-8999.