Offered at Clinton Hospital
This article originally appeared in a health information newsletter
published by Clinton Hospital for members of the Greater Clinton community.
In December 2007, Clinton Hospital became one of only 30 percent of hospitals
nationwide to offer digital
mammography services to its patients. For many
women, this sought-after technology is more effective in detecting breast tissue
abnormalities, allowing for early breast cancer detection and treatment.
Digital mammography directly captures digital images of breast tissue with
exceptional clarity. The details in these images are further enhanced when
viewed on high-resolution monitors to create an even sharper image, much like
that of high-definition television. These remarkably clear images provide
radiologists with additional information to make a diagnosis, while eliminating
many restrictions of traditional mammography, including costly film processing
and transportation, false test results, and trouble detecting problems in women
with dense breast tissue.
"With digital mammography, we are seeing a lot more calcifications (abnormal
breast tissue) in the x-ray images," explained Ronald Garrell, MD, Clinton
Hospital radiologist.
"The clear picture makes suspicious areas much more evident, prompting
additional testing to catch a problem early, or even to rule issues out
completely and give patients peace-of-mind sooner."
In addition to the expertise of the hospital's radiologists, Clinton Hospital
now uses a computerized scanning system to double check all mammograms. The
system acts as a second set of eyes, screening mammograms, double checking
images for any abnormalities, and highlighting suspicious areas for further
review.
When suspicious areas are identified, the hospital's patients have the added
benefit of follow-up breast ultrasound that can often be performed the same day.
"A breast ultrasound is a diagnostic test that boosts the accuracy of the
imaging evaluation, possibly eliminating the need for an unnecessary biopsy,"
said Dr. Garrell. "On top of that, it can provide instant peace-of-mind for our
patients."
Should results from the ultrasound prompt further testing, a needle-guided
ultrasound breast biopsy can also be performed at the hospital rapidly.
All mammograms performed at Clinton Hospital are read by board-certified
radiologists, including Dr. Garrell, Jonathan Arnow, MD, and Mark Sykes, MD. "We
are very fortunate to have these excellent radiologists on our mammography
team," said Sheila Daly, president and CEO of Clinton Hospital. "They all have a
special interest in breast imaging and share an outstanding reputation in the
field."
Routine digital mammography appointments can be scheduled in one week or less
by calling, 978-368-3737. A physician referral is not required for an annual
mammogram.