Arlington Memorial Hospital opened with the future in mind 50 years ago, and today continues to care for the community by adding yet another advanced technology. Selenia digital mammography from Hologic is now part of the comprehensive diagnostic services at Arlington Memorial Hospital. The new system incorporates revolutionary imaging technology that provides incredibly sharp images.
From the patient’s point of view, the digital mammogram is like traditional film screen mammography. Both methods use x-ray technology to generate images of the breast. However, instead of using film to capture and record the image, a digital mammogram uses a special detector to capture and convert x-ray energy into a digital image. The resulting digital images are immediately available to the radiologist for diagnosis.
Benefits of Digital
“We can view and manipulate images on high-resolution computer monitors that enhance visualization of the structures within the breast tissue,” says David Diffley, M.D., radiologist on the medical staff at Arlington Memorial Hospital. The computer monitors can also adjust brightness and contrast and zoom in on one specific area to help detect small calcifications, masses, and other changes that may be signs of early cancer.
“This gives us a better visibility of the breast, particularly near the skin line, the chest wall, and in women with dense breast tissue.”
Digital mammography offers a number of other practical advantages and patient conveniences. “Because there is no waiting for film to be developed it can significantly reduce the time patients stand in the breast Center, as well as reduced the need for repeat exams due to under- or overexposure,” says Linda Wren, R.T., radiology manager at Arlington Memorial Hospital.
Digital images are also easily stored and transferred electronically, eliminating the dependency on one set of original films.
Scope of Problem
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women, exceeded only by lung cancer. Statistics demonstrate that one in eight women will develop breast cancer sometime in her life. The stage at which breast cancer is detected influences a woman’s survival. If detected early, the five-year survival rate is 97%.
To Learn More
Arlington Memorial Hospital is committed to the fight against breast cancer. If you would like to schedule a mammogram or if you have questions about this important breast health procedure, please call 817-548-6564.
Arlington Memorial Hospital and You
Fall Winter 2008
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