Digital Mammography
Digital Mammography is the newest technology for breast cancer detection. With the digital mammography system the x-ray film is replaced by solid-state detectors that convert x-rays into electrical signals. The electrical signals are used to produce images of the breast that can be seen on a high resolution computer monitor. The radiologist can then adjust the brightness, change contrast, an zoom in for close ups of specific areas of interest. Being able to manipulate images is one of the main benefits of digital technology. This enables the radiologist to have better visualization through the different types of breast tissue.
A radiologist specially trained in mammography from St. Alexius Prime Care in Bismarck reads the images and sends a signed report to the patient's provider who will then discuss the results with the patient.
The radiologic technologist performing your mammogram is specially trained and is board certified by the American College of Radiology and The American Society of Radiologic Technologist in Mammography.
The full field digital mammography equipment is designed to improve patient comfort. One of the many new fetures is the FAST paddle. This is a flexible compression paddle that ensures more uniform compression along with improving the image quality and results in greater comfort to the patient.
Remember an annual mammogram is one of your best defenses agains breast cancer.
The American Cancer Society recommends women age 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year.
