digital mammography system

Until some years ago, mammography was typically performed using screen-film cassettes. However, over the years, it has undergone a lot of transition and today this system has been digitalised and is the most reliable method of detecting breast cancer. This is probably also the most important tool doctors have for diagnosing and evaluating this type of cancer. Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women across the globe. So the early the detection, the greater are the chances of survival. Thus, it is very essential that the signs of breast cancer be recognised as soon as possible and mammograms have served this purpose very well.
The latest in the panorama of mammograms are the digital ones, which have made diagnosis more efficient and less time-consuming. Compared to the traditional radiography, digital mammography system offers a considerable higher spatial and contrast resolution, allowing for the early detection of even the slightest of changes in the soft tissues.
One such digital mammography system is the Senographe DS, which offers advanced image quality, patient comfort and user ergonomics. This system has been designed to meet a broad spectrum of clinical needs – from screening and diagnosis to interventional procedures. It further gives the radiologist exclusive image processing capability, including premium view and tissue equalisation for better visualisation of the breast. It has been designed exclusively to image the breasts in both male and female patients.

Features
Senographe DS features GE’s Revolution™ flat panel detector to optimise image quality and workflow. It has an ergonomic design and image processing capabilities, which provides better visibility of the breast, particularly near the skin line, the chest wall and in women with dense breast tissue. It makes available consistent image quality for screening, diagnosis and interventional procedures, which is very beneficial for the doctors. In addition to this, its advanced digital capabilities allow breast images to be reviewed electronically for improved workflow in the mammography department. Not only this, electronic archiving of patient images helps in getting easier retrieval and transmission of patient information to the doctors.
With the ability to do both vertical and lateral approaches, it gives easier access to lesions for biopsies –optimising biopsy sampling. Digital capability allows for image quality checks within seconds after acquisition–giving physician/technologist the ability to confirm image quality before the patient leaves the examination room. Its Seno Advantage, the multi-modality Breastcare workstation provides fast, easy and error free comparison of images acquired from mammography, MR, ultrasound, and PET systems –all done on one workstation. Patient schedule from HIS/RIS can trigger previous history exams to be sent from PACS to acquisition and/or review workstations. In addition to this, HIS/RIS work list is automatically communicated to acquisition and/or review workstations.
The images of the patient can be sent automatically from Senographe DS to PACS, printers, CAD and the workstations that are reviewing the images. Multi-modality patient files can be easily created for the referring physician in a few clicks. Computer Aided Detection (CAD)–a sophisticated optional tool helps the physician identify suspicious lesions and assists the radiologist in the early detection of breast cancer.

Other features:
? Two speed motorised movements for fast and precise operation.
? Isocentric and motorised gantry for easier handling and positioning of the patients.
? Quick and easy positioning with one touch access to preset angulations.
? Intuitive user interface always within arms reach of technologist.
? Compression speed of the paddle slows down, when it comes in contact with the breast further providing better patient comfort.
? The system’s digital capability allows for image quality checks within seconds after acquisition of data–giving physician or