Digital Mammography was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2000 and is rapidly being adopted by leading breast centers nationwide. Digital Mammography offers many advantages over traditional x-ray film:
- Produces images for evaluation in a matter of seconds using specially designed digital detectors and high-resolution monitors
- Uses selenium-based, direct-capture technology, which completely eliminates light diffusion for unsurpassed clarity and image quality
- Transmits images quickly across a network to physicians and technologists
- Enables physicians to adjust brightness, change contrast, and zoom in for close ups of specific areas of interest — providing greater accuracy in identifying potentially cancerous tissue
- Stores and copies images, just like computer files, which eliminates the dependence on one set of “original” films
- Greatly reduces the need for retakes due to over or under exposure, saving time and reducing patients’ exposure to x-rays
St. Joseph Hospital utilizes the latest technology to identify cancers at their earliest stages. To ensure that you receive the highest quality care, we also:
- Use computer assisted detection (CAD) software for second reads on all mammograms
- Perform thorough evaluations of areas of concern, including comparisons with prior studies to identify changes in appearance and architecture
- Recommend additional evaluations using advanced technology (digital mammography, ultrasound, breast MRI and ultrasound core biopsy or stereotactic biopsy) to secure the answers you and your doctor need — when you need them
In addition, St. Joseph Hospital's mammography facility is FDA approved and certified as meeting quality standards for equipment, personnel and practices under the Mammography Quality Standards Act. In addition, our facility is also approved by the American College of Radiology. Click here to view a complete list of our accreditations.