Breast cancer will affect an average of one in eight women sometime in the course of their lifetime. It is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in women. Numerous studies prove that early detection is a vital component in the successful treatment of breast cancer.
Unlike other parts of the body, the breast is composed mainly of soft tissue. When breast tissue is x-rayed, it creates an image that looks something like a smoky haze, making it difficult to see tiny "spots," called microcalcifications, and other subtle signs of early cancer.
At St. Joseph Hospital, we've implemented digital mammography in our state-of-the-art Breast Care Center. Digital mammography uses computers and specially designed digital detectors to produce an image that can be displayed on a high-resolution computer monitor, transmitted and stored just like computer files. From a patient's point of view, having a digital mammogram is very much like having a conventional screen-film mammogram. Both film-based and digital mammography use compression and x-rays to create clear images of the inside of the breast. During all mammography exams, the technologist positions the patient to image the breast from different angles and compresses the breast to obtain optimal image quality. Compression may sometimes be slightly uncomfortable, but it is extremely important in the separation of breast tissue to enable the radiologist to make a conclusive diagnosis.
Unlike film-based mammography, digital mammograms produce images that appear on the monitor in a matter of seconds—no waiting for films to be developed. When the physician reads the scans, he/she can adjust the brightness, change contrast, and zoom in for close ups of specific areas of interest. Being able to manipulate images is one of the main benefits of digital technology.
Because they are electronic, digital mammography images can be transmitted quickly across a network. Digital images can also be easily stored, copied, and transmitted and received in a more streamlined manner, eliminating dependence on only one set of "original" films.
Remember, an annual mammogram is one of your best defenses against breast cancer. To make an appointment for your digital mammogram, call the Breast Care Center at St. Joseph Hospital at (603) 595-5700. Digital mammography is available in Nashua at St. Joseph Hospital and in Milford at the Medical Center.