Digital Mammography with CAD

            Digital mammography with CAD is a technique for recording x-ray images in computer code instead of on x-ray film, as with analog mammography. The images are displayed on a computer monitor for the radiologist to review and can be enhanced – lightened or darkened. Images can also be manipulated; the radiologist (a doctor specializing in interpreting pictures of areas inside the body) can magnify or zoom in on an area. Positioning for a digital mammogram is the same as for conventional mammography.

Digital mammography has some advantages over conventional mammography. The images can be stored and retrieved electronically, which makes long-distance consultations with other mammography facilities easier. Because the images can be adjusted by the radiologist, subtle differences between tissues may be noted. The improved accuracy of digital mammography may reduce the number of follow-up procedures.

 The first digital mammography system received U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval in 2000. Breast Imaging of Oklahoma was one of the first FDA-certified mammography centers in the state to use this technology. Only facilities that have been certified to practice conventional mammography and have FDA approval for digital mammography may offer the digital system.

 Your Preparation for this Service:

1. Wear a 2-piece outfit (removable top). We will provide you a cover-up to wear during your procedure.
2. Wear little or no body powder or perfume to your appointment. Deodorant is fine as most deodorants no longer have quantities of metal that can interfere with mammographic images.
3. Bring with you any previous images of your breasts that were done anywhere but here in the last 3-5 years.

How Much Time to Allow for your Visit for this Service:

     45 minutes to an hour. This includes your check-in time.

What to Expect After this Service:

1. Your results will be mailed to you about a week after your appointment. If for any reason we needed to see you for additional imaging you would be contacted to schedule a follow-up visit.
2. A formal report will be faxed to your physician within a few days of your appointment.

CAD (Computer-Aided Detection)

      CAD technology is used as a “spell check” of the original mammogram, with suspicious areas highlighted for the radiologist to review. CAD technology has been proven to increase the accuracy of mammography.