Internal Medicine to offer Full Field Digital Mammography
Internal Medicine Associates has added a Full Field Digital Mammography to its Cape Coral office to provide a faster, more comfortable experience for women who are having their annual mammograms done.
Director of Administration Michael Biel said providing mammographs for women was a service that they had not previously offered, but they knew it would be an important preventative test that would help patients maintain a healthy status. The piece of equipment was introduced solely to their Cape Coral office this month.
“Digital mammography uses computers and specialty designed digital detectors to produce an image that can be displayed on a high resolution computer monitor and can be transmitted and stored just like computer files,” Biel said.
He explained that while the radiologist examines and review electronic images of the breast, he or she can adjust the brightness, along with changing the contrast and zoom in for a closer look if there is a specific area of interest. A post algorithm process, which is referred to as the computer aided detection, serves as another set of eyes for the radiologist when using the digital mammography.
“Using digital technology, we can greatly reduce the need for retakes due to over or under exposure, thus saving time and the patients exposure to X-rays,” Biel said. “Screen film mammography does not allow for any adjusting, whatever comes out on the film is what you get.”
The actual digital mammogram test only takes five minutes to complete; therefore providing more comfort for the patients.
“The time that the breast is being squeezed is a lot shorter due to automation,” Biel said. “As soon as the image is taken the compression lets loose, where as in the past you had to wait for the technologist to come around and release the compression.”
He added that where the breast is placed on the piece of equipment is not as cold as it used to be because of the different material used, which also adds additional comfort for the patient.
Full Field Digital Mammography also uses a lower dosage of radiation when having the test taken.
Patients do not have to be a member of Internal Medicine Associates or have a doctor’s order to have a mammogram done. Patients are asked to offer a primary care physicians name when having the test done, so the report can be sent to them.
For those who wish to schedule a mammogram can call (239) 938-1777.
Internal Medicine Associate’s Radiology Department is at 1528 Del Prado Blvd. The office is open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.