Womens Imaging

Women’s imaging encompasses many radiology procedures related to women and the diseases that are most prevalent to women such as breast cancer or gynecological issues. Mammogram, breast ultrasound, breast MRI and breast biopsy are the most commonly used procedures.

Debra L. Monticciolo, MD, FACR, FSBI, past-president of both the Society of Breast Imaging (SBI), and the American College of Radiology (ACR), explains the current recommendations and a study she did looking at real patient data and projected outcomes using different screening parameters.

The debate over when women should start breast screenings

Debra Monticciolo, MD, who has previously led both the Society of Breast Imaging and the American College of Radiology, discussed how different screening strategies may impact patient outcomes.

Comparison of a 2D digital mammogram and breast tomosynthesis 3D mammography from UCSF.

90% of breast imaging centers now offer 3D tomosynthesis

Experts in the field say the rising numbers of 3D mammography systems show it is becoming the new standard of care.

ACR CEO outlines top trends in breast imaging

Dana Smetherman, MD, is a diagnostic radiologist who specializes in breast imaging. She spoke to Health Imaging about some key issues that have her attention in 2024 and beyond. 

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Ultrasound-first strategy most cost-effective for recalled breast cancer screening patients

US-first resulted in an incremental net monetary benefit of about $681 versus using diagnostic mammography first, experts wrote in AJR.  

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Nearly 40% of women in their 40s would delay mammography screening after learning of its downsides

Many found information about the benefits and harms of mammography "surprising," experts wrote in the Annals of Internal Medicine. 

black woman breast cancer pink ribbon

Only 17% of patients self-schedule mammograms, with preference for nights and weekends

While the number may appear low, interest in this option continues to increase, noted experts with Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore. 

breast cancer mammography screening mammogram scheduling

All mammograms from the last 2 years 'could be subject to an inaccurate interpretation,' hospital warns

Per an order from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the hospital has had to halt all mammography services.

Allegheny Health Network Jefferson Hospital

Hospital invests nearly $5M to quadruple its monthly breast cancer screening capacity

Allegheny Health Network in Pennsylvania has seen an uptick in women seeking services from the AHN Jefferson Breast Center, necessitating the capital project. 

Around the web

After reviewing years of data from its clinic, one institution discovered that issues with implant data integrity frequently put patients at risk. 

Prior to the final proposal’s release, the American College of Radiology reached out to CMS to offer its recommendations on payment rates for five out of the six the new codes.

“Before these CPT codes there was no real acknowledgment of the additional burden borne by the providers who accepted these patients."

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