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CancerQuest > Introduction to Patient Information > Introduction to Cancer Detection and Diagnosis > Introduction to Mammography > Digital Mammography

Digital Mammography

Digital mammography is a relatively new way of capturing the mammographic images.  Instead of using X-ray film to capture the image, computerized sensors collect the image.

Digital mammography is becoming more popular because the images are stored on a computer and may be read by a radiologist directly on a computer screen. Mammograms can be shared with other physcians more easily via computer than by hand.  Importantly, radiologists can enhance the images to get a better view of particular areas.⁽¹⁾

Below is a comparison of images from a regular mammogram (on the left) and an enhanced digital mammogram (on the right). The digital mammogram allowed for the discovery of an otherwise undetectable abnormality. Currently there is debate in the field as to whether the increased detection of cancer by digital imaging justifies its increased cost to the patient. A fear is that increased cost could prevent some women from having mammography screening.

 

Images courtesy of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center

References for this page:

1. "Mammography and Other Breast Imaging Procedures." American Cancer Society (6-19-2002). [http://www.cancer.org/Healthy/FindCancerEarly/ExamandTestDescriptions/MammogramsandOtherBreastImagingProcedures/mammograms-and-other-breast-imaging-procedures]