Over half a million dollars has been invested in bringing digital mammography technology to Ashtabula County Medical Center. The new mammography equipment will provide our community with the most current technology in breast imaging.
ACMC President and CEO Michael Habowski said, “The investment in digital mammography represents our dedication to providing the best diagnostic tools for our physicians and patients. The new equipment provides better images and gives physicians more control over what they see on the screen. It also makes the test safer and more comfortable for patients.”
Digital mammography has been in use for several years, but a study completed just last year confirmed that the newer technology does, indeed, result in a better image for the physician to review and on which to base his or her diagnosis.
Having a digital mammogram is essentially the same as having a conventional film mammogram. A digital exam requires the same compression as an analog exam; however, the technology is fast so patients spend less time in uncomfortable positions. And, instead of using X-ray film, the equipment is similar to a digital camera and stores the images electronically. Since there is no waiting for film to be developed, the technologist can evaluate the quality of the images as they are taken. The image brightness, darkness, or contrast can all be adjusted so the technologist can more easily distinguish between tissue and cancerous cells.
Previously, if a shadow was seen on an image, a second mammogram had to be scheduled. The new technology ends that.
The digital image can also be magnified after the mammogram is complete, which makes it easier to see subtle differences between tissues.
Electronic transmission of images from one physician to another is quick, easy and secure. The images can also be printed to special film, if needed.
Another added benefit of digital mammography is that patients spend less time in the exam room, and patients rarely need to return for repeat images due to under- or over-exposures.
ACMC’s new mammogram machines are Siemens Mammomat Inspiration devices, which offer full-field, digital mammography at lower radiation doses to the patient. The Opdose feature automatically selects the best anode/filter combination for the patient’s individual breast characteristics. This minimizes radiation dose and time exposure.
The machines are ideal for regular screenings, as well as diagnostic scans if your physician suspects a problem in the breast.
ACMC has also purchased new high resolution physician work stations, giving the physician better access and better control over the images.
While at the workstation, the physician can access other images already stored in the patient’s electronic chart to compare the current image to previous ones to assess any changes that maybe have occurred since the last exam.
Another characteristic of the new digital mammography is CAD (Computer Assisted Diagnosis).
ACMC Director of Imaging Services Nancy Shaw-Hertzog said, “While the physician will review all images, the CAD also scans the image and alerts the physician to a portion of the image that might need closer study. It doesn’t replace the trained physician, but it can aid in early detection of breast cancer by finding small clusters cells that should be analyzed.”
The Siemens Mammomat Inspiration also features a stereotactic biopsy add-on system which provides a less invasive approach to obtaining a biopsy. A sample can be taken immediately, if needed.
Biopsies can be performed in the reclining position, or in an upright position, making it more comfortable for the patient.
Shaw-Hertzog said that in the past, a special biopsy would have to be scheduled in surgery, meaning a delay for the patient who is probably fearful of the likelihood of having breast cancer.
More comfort for the patient is a key feature of the new equipment.
The Mammomat Inspiration includes Opcomp, which helps technologists determine the optimal compression, meaning less patient discomfort. The paddle stops at the optimal compression to give physicians the minutest details of breast.
To schedule a mammogram, contact your physician for a referral. Once you have a physician’s order, contact ACMC’s radiology department at 440-997-6686. ACMC offers extended hours throughout the week and on weekends for scheduling convenience.