New mammography capability coming to Edwards clinic

  • Published
  • By Randy Wells
  • 95th Medical Operations Squadron
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The 95th Medical Group will unveil an innovative leap in technology for its screening mammography program as early as July 1.

The Diagnostic Imaging Element is adding computed radiography imaging technology, which will have many advantages over the technology it replaces.  These include:

· Reduced exposure time - patients will be exposed to less radiation, dramatically increasing patient safety.

· Reduced processing time - the total exam time will be drastically reduced allowing for more appointments during the day.

· Enhanced image analysis - the clarity of the image will increase approximately 60% allowing for a better chance of diagnosing microscopic abnormalities in the breast tissue.

· No hazardous chemicals are required - this saves the government $6,000 annually and reduces environmental concerns.

· No image degradation - mammograms will now be electronically archived as digital images, and therefore retain image integrity indefinitely.

· Reduced storage needs - electronic archival of images will eliminate bulky film storage.

· Electronic transmittal of date - there will never be a question of legality with automatic date stamping of all images.

Patients will still be able to request "hard-copies" of their mammograms once the new process begins.   A new dry laser imager will print mammograms much like an office laser printer works.  Implementation will begin June 21 and the Medical Group estimates a seamless transition to the new system with only a minor interruption in service. Any questions may be directed to the Radiology Manager, Mr. Randy Wells, (661) 275-2709.