FMDH Receives State-of-the-Art Mammogram Upgrade

When it comes to the diagnosis of breast cancer, early detection is key and Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital radiology department is helping patients do just that. With a recent software upgrade to their already state of the art mammogram machine, the radiologist, Dr. Louis Bailey, is able to detect breast cancer at an earlier stage.

The software upgrade, C-View, allows the machine to create a 2D image directly from a reconstruction of the 3D digital breast tomosynthesis (TOMO) images. Instead of a patient needing to have one scan completed, have the radiology tech and patient reset, and then complete another scan, the software program will automatically take the first set of images to create the necessary views. The software enhances details such as bright spots and linear structures while minimizing tissue overlap. These details help make it easier for doctors to see abnormalities and detect breast cancer.

According to radiology director Mary Volk, who has been with the department for 25 years, this technology is certainly above and beyond what she has seen over the years. “The changes expedite the exam process, where now the mammogram takes less time and there is less radiation exposure to the patient,” Volk stated, “We are able to perform more mammograms in a day and patients can enjoy the rest of the day.”

Radiology technologist, Lindsey Zoanni, who has been in the department for 18 years, is amazed at how the technology has evolved over the years, stating “There has been much progression over the years. FMDH certainly has the most up-to-date technology which not only helps us, but the doctors and the patients as well.”

The radiology department recommends every woman get a mammogram yearly starting at the age of 40 because it’s all about early detection. A patient can self-refer or be referred by their primary physician. They can be contacted at 406-228-3500.