ADVANCES IN MAMMOGRAPHY!!
new technology now available at Manhasset Diagnostic improves accuracy of screening mammography


Computer-aided detection (CAD) technology is a recent advance in the field of breast imaging. The CAD technology basically works like a second pair of eyes, reviewing a patient's mammogram film after the radiologist has already made an initial interpretation. If the computer software detects any breast abnormalities or "regions of interest" on the mammogram film, it marks them. The radiologist can then go back and review the mammogram film again to determine whether the marked areas are suspicious and require further examination (with additional imaging tests or biopsy). With the CAD technology, the radiologist still makes the final interpretation of the mammogram.

 
Currently, the Imagechecker made by R2 Technology, Inc. is the only CAD technology approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help detect breast abnormalities on mammogram films. Based on clinical studies of the CAD technology, researchers estimate that for every 100,000 breast cancers currently detected with screening mammograms, the CAD technology could result in the detection of an additional 20,500 breast cancers.
photo courtesy of
R2 Technology, Inc.
Mammography can help detect breast cancer at an early stage, when the chances for successful treatment and survival are the greatest. While mammography detects approximately 85% to 90% of breast cancers, mammogram films can be difficult for radiologists to read. Thus, radiologists can occasionally overlook breast cancers that are present on mammogram films. The CAD technology works as a "second reading" for radiologists, alerting them to areas on films that may require more attention.

Manhasset Diagnostic Imaging is pleased to announce the additon of Imagechecker to our practice, as of December, 2001.   We are now utilizing computer-aided detection technology routinely on all screening mammograms.  Medicare and several other insurance companies now reimburse CAD(imagechecker) as an add-on covered service, in conjunction with screening mammography.