Going Digital

Digital Mammography replaces our current analog (hard copy film) system. The use of analog systems has been the standard mammography procedure for years. Digital mammography has evolved over recent years and has proven to be a better means of diagnosing small breast cancers. Digital mammography uses a direct digital capture of images compared to the analog system that requires processing film, storing film, and transportation of film by mail.

Digital mammography is an electronic digital image that is stored and can be transmitted electronically from one location to another. There is higher image quality and more image manipulation capabilities for the doctor who interprets the image. Digital mammography utilizes Computer Aided Detection (CAD) which acts as a” second pair of eyes” to assist the doctor by an advanced computer evaluation of images. CAD works similar to spell checker on a personal computer and is capable of detecting minute abnormalities. This is accomplished by taking the computerized data and marking areas of the images that are abnormal, within the breast tissue and surrounding areas. These markings of interest are then more stringently evaluated by the doctor to assist in a much more advanced diagnostic exam with the potential to detect findings that might have otherwise been overlooked. CAD technology is especially effective in identifying micro-calcifications in the breast, some of which can indicate a malignant process. There is less patient dose with digital mammography and fewer call backs for repeat or additional imaging.

Breast cancer is currently the second most common cancer in women. Statistics indicate that one in thirty three women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and will not survive. There is a ninety-eight percent survival rate after five years for breast cancers diagnosed early. Screening mammography can detect cancers as early as two years before a cancer can be felt. The amount of radiation from a screening mammogram is less than that received from spending a day on the beach. Annual screening mammograms are recommended for all women age forty and above and those age thirty and above with a family history of breast cancer.

Saunders Medical Center Imaging Services is implementing a GE Senographe DS digital mammography system. GE has 15 years of experience in digital mammography and over 150 million dollars of research has been devoted to their digital mammography systems. Saunders Medical Center will offer Mammography with a Radiologist (doctor specialized in reading x-rays) on site for immediate interpretation and same day Ultrasound availability. The facility is an FDA, MQSA (Mammography Quality Standards Act) and ACR (American College of Radiography) licensed and accredited facility.

Dual energy x-ray absorption, DEXA, is used to measure bone strength and to assess the probability of a bone fracture occurring in the future. It is a simple, painless test that uses minimal radiation and computer assistance to acquire bone density data. DEXA is used to diagnose osteoporosis and to monitor potential bone weakening effects of corticosteroid use. Osteoporosis risk factors include family history of fractures, estrogen use at an early age, low body weight, low calcium intake, the use of tobacco, caffeine intake, oral contraceptive use, and the consumption of two or more alcoholic drinks daily. It is recommended that all women age sixty-five or above have a bone density screening every one to two years. For men and women with any of the previous mentioned risk factors, screening should be done at the discretion of their physician. We are proud to provide the highest standard of care with specially trained and experienced Radiologists, technologists, and state of the art equipment. Schedule your mammogram when your breasts will be least tender, approximately one week after your period.

On the day of the test, do not use deodorant, powder, perfume, lotion or cream under your arms or on your breasts. These products may interfere with the X-Ray results.

Please report to the admissions desk 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment.
If you are pregnant or think you may be, tell your doctor and the technologist before the exam.

What to Expect:

Your mammogram will be done in our mammography suite. You will be asked to undress from the waist up, so please dress accordingly.

A female technologist positions the breast by resting it on a small platform and then gently compresses the breast with a plastic compression paddle. The purpose of the compression is to flatten the breast as much as possible. Spreading out the tissue makes abnormal details easier to visualize with a minimum amount of radiation. The pressure of the compression can be uncomfortable or even slightly painful. It helps to remember that each X-Ray takes just a few moments--and it could be life saving.
The entire exam takes about 15 minutes.