Advances in Mammography

Modern x-ray mammography uses dedicated systems (that is, a machine used only for breast x-rays) to produce x-rays that are high in quality but low in radiation dose. In the past, there were concerns about radiation risks. Modern mammography systems are tightly monitored by the Mammography Quality Standard Act (MQSA) and any risk is far outweighed by the benefits of early breast cancer detection. In order to x-ray the breast, a "softer" type of x-ray is used than for other parts of the body. Mammography is designed for imaging the soft tissue of the breasts as opposed to "harder" x-rays designed to penetrate and image the bones of the body.

X-ray mammography is the only approved examination to screen for breast cancer. However, ultrasound imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), t-scan (EIS impedance imaging), and nuclear medicine imaging have been further developed in recent years for use in imaging the breast, as adjunct tools to diagnostic x-ray mammography. MRI imaging, ultrasound and nuclear medicine do not provide the spatial resolution (fine detail) available with conventional x-ray mammography. However, MRI provides images with excellent contrast resolution that can help radiologists diagnose and differentiate breast cancers. Ultrasound is useful for imaging cysts and guiding breast biopsy. Nuclear medicine is good for evaluating the spread (metastasis) of cancer into the lymphatic system, other organs and skeletal system.

Researchers and medical imaging system manufacturers continue to invest tremendous resources into the field of breast imaging. The collective goal of this research and product development is:

• to increase the number of cancers found with imaging before they are felt by the patient or her physician
• to find cancers even smaller than those detected currently by mammography
• to improve the accuracy of breast imaging in distinguishing benign breast conditions from breast cancers
• to increase patient comfort and safety during breast imaging and biopsy
• to continue to lower the dose of radiation require to produce quality mammograms

This modern mammography system has excellent high adjustable
flexibility allowing it to image patients of all sizes in various positions

Ergonomic and Patient Safety Improvements in Mammography Systems

Researchers and medical imaging system manufactures continuously strive to improve the design of mammography systems to increase patient comfort and safety during mammography and biopsy. Recent improvements to mammographic systems include:

• Special devices to minimize patient discomfort while applying appropriate compression to maximize image quality.
• Newer x-ray technologies that deliver excellent image quality and minimal x-ray dose.
• Improved ergonomic designs to allow maximum flexibility in obtaining different anatomic views on a wide range of patients while providing improved patient comfort. Patients can now be imaged while standing, sitting or lying down, depending upon the need.
• New technologies to allow the mammographic exam to be completed more quickly for increased patient comfort and convenience.