Integrating Digital Mammography
Digital mammography has been proven to offer significant advantages over film-based mammograms. Radiologists have the capability to manipulate images to more closely examine areas of concern. Other advantages include elimination of chemical processing, convenient storage, and patient care benefits.
While the decision to integrate digital mammography in light of this evidence may be intuitive, factors relating to transition and implementation are important practical considerations. The first consideration for most institutions is whether or not to purchase digital technology. Cost benefit is most likely to be noted for facilities that perform at least 15,000 studies annually. And even hospitals that do achieve such volume may not document a return on investment for some years.
There is a learning curve for technologists and radiologists alike during transition. Some speculate that even after adapting, the increased image capture requires more time for radiologists to interpret. But this modality increases likelihood of detecting smaller lesions, conferring improved outcomes.
Digital mammography can be easily integrated with local PACs as radiology increasingly integrates technology. See further coverage on Trends in Radiology.
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April 4, 2007 Related topics: Imaging, Diagnostic, IT & software