Digital Mammography

Digital (computerized) mammography is an x-ray imaging technique developed specifically to aid in the early detection of breast cancer. Early diagnosis, most doctors and researchers agree, leads to more successful and lasting treatment.

Digital mammography uses equipment similar to conventional mammography, but the image is captured by a computer instead of x-ray film. The image can be magnified or altered after taken so the radiologist can enhance the results for a better reading.

The images that result from annual screening mammograms allow experts to detect changes in the breast and detect suspicious tissue up to two years before it can be
felt by you or your doctor. Suspicious images or abnormalities on a screening mammogram may prompt your doctor to ask for a more detailed diagnostic mammo-gram. Diagnostic mammograms are similar to screening mammograms, but contain specialized views of target areas. For example, if the radiologist wants to further
evaluate suspicious calcifications appearing on a screening mammogram, magni-fication views of the area may be taken during a diagnostic mammogram.

Download an overview of digital mammography

EXAMINATION / PROCEDURE INFORMATION

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Much of the material on this website was developed from information provided by the
Radiological Society of North America and gleaned from www.radiologyinfo.net. You are
invited to visit the website forr more detailed information on radiological procedures.

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