Studies prove that digital mammograms deliver less radiation than conventional imaging methods.

In 2005, the American College of Radiology Imaging Network enrolled 49,528 women and found that digital mammography detected up to 28% more instances of cancer than film mammography. Flash forward to 2010 and from this study, 5100 women were reevaluated and what was discovered was a significantly lower amount of radiation received in comparison to women imaged with standard film. "The average breast radiation dose per view was 2.37 mGy for film mammography and 1.86 mGy for digital (22 percent lower for digital than film mammography)," said R. Edward Hendrick, PhD, lead author of the study.

Specifically, digital tomosynthesis is a new methodology for breast examines in which the breast is positioned the same way as a conventional mammogram, but little pressure is applied. An X-ray tube moves in an arc around the breast while several images (11) are taken in seven seconds. The information is then sent to a computer and assembled to produce clear, highly focused 3D images throughout the breast. This methodology is so new, however, that it is still pending FDA approval.

Best-in-Class Mammography Systems:

• Significant reductions in the time required for both screening and diagnostic procedures
• Dramatic reductions in retake rates
• Image acquisition and simultaneous display of priors integrated into one intuitive acquisition workstation

Top Considerations before buying Mammography Systems:
Breast cancer detection can be compared to finding a needle in a haystack, especially in women with denser breast tissue. New digital imaging, specifically, tomosynthesis makes detection easier and limits dosing of radiation for patients. Currently, 60% of facilities offer digital radiation.

Key Providers:

1. Minimize radiation doses with Hologic’s Tungsten X-Ray Tube, just one component to the Selenia Digital Mammography solution. Filled with rhodium and silver filters radiation doses are significantly reduced without compromising image quality. The Selenia acquisition workstation features an intuitive interface making it easier to focus on the present patient. Other features include direct capture technology to eliminate light diffusion for better image quality. Founded in 1985, Hologic, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOLX) has grown to become a leading developer, manufacturer and supplier of premium diagnostic products, medical imaging systems, and surgical products created specifically to address the healthcare needs of women throughout the world.

2. Consider implementing the Siemen's MAMMOMAT Novation S into your healthcare facility. This full-field digital mammography solution offers better screening capabilities for dense breasts, short examination times, patient comfort and easy storage and transmission of images. Through DICOM compatibility, patient data is stored in existing digital clinical archives and are available to view or print in real-time. Siemens Healthcare delivers solutions across the entire continuum of care – from prevention and early detection, to diagnosis, therapy and care.

3. The Aspire HD Digital Mammography System by Fujifilm utilizes direct-to-digital detectors, featuring a pixel pitch of 50µm¹, a dual-layer amorphous-seleniums DR FFDM System. Tungsten x-ray tubes also aid in the reduction of radiation doses without sacrificing the optimal 24x30cm detection area imaging. Images can be split into 1, 2 or 4-up for optimal viewing and integrated control allows exposure settings and resulting confirmations of image conditions to be captured on one screen. This system supports DICOM Version 3. Headquartered in Stamford, CT, Fujifilm is a full-service diagnostic imaging company sales, service and marketing operations for the United States, and serving as the worldwide R&D software release headquarters for PACS.

4. GE’s Senographe DS is a full-field digital mammography system that is designed by women, for women. Physically, it features ergonomic paddles to fit breast shapes better, a narrow tube head for easy positioning and wheelchair access. For physicians, it boasts a user friendly design with isocentric and motorized gantry, pre-set positioning, and between exposure times of less than 15 seconds. Most importantly, it has superb image quality utilizing the Revolution Csi detector for lose dose imaging and new AOP modes for image quality/dose management. Headquartered in the United Kingdom, GE Healthcare is a $17 billion unit of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE). Worldwide, GE Healthcare employs more than 46,000 people committed to serving healthcare professionals and their patients in more than 100 countries.

Mammography Systems
Definition: Applications in which mammograms are recorded and analyzed for the screening and diagnosis of breast cancer. Systems may include conventional or digital imaging.