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What You Need to Know About Digital Mammography

A screening mammogram that produces a digital image is just as effective at finding breast cancer as a traditional mammogram done with X-rays. The traditional mammogram is called analog mammography. No woman should skip her mammogram because a digital mammogram is not available. 

But digital technology offers several potential advantages over the current film method for mammography. Unlike film images, digital images:

  • Can be stored and transferred electronically

  • Are less likely to get lost

  • Can be manipulated to correct for underexposure or overexposure, potentially eliminating the need for another mammogram

  • Allow radiologists to use software to help interpret or read them

  • Have a large dynamic range that allows examination of all areas of the breast, despite varying densities

Many of the mammography machines in use today are digital units. The process of getting a digital mammogram is just like a regular mammogram. In fact, the only way you may know what type you get is to ask the technologist working with you.

 

Online Medical Reviewer: Haines, Cynthia, M.D.
Online Medical Reviewer: Stump-Sutliff, Kim RN, MSN, AOCNS
Last Review Date: 8/8/2012
© 2013 Krames StayWell, 780 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.