Radiology - What's New?

ImageChecker helps in early breast cancer detection

"It acts like a second set of eyes," says Jolinda Rains, RT, lead mammography tech at Salina Regional Health Center.

Here's how it works.  The mammogram image is run through a computer processor that creates a digital image and scans for abnormalities and highlights areas for additional review.  The radiologist typically reviews the entire mammogram first, then activates the ImageChecker monitor to see if any areas have been highlighted.  If an image is marked, the radiologist goes back to the original mammogram to review this section of the image in more detail.

"It doesn't read the mammogram, but double-checks the radiologist by highlighting tiny areas that might escape detection," says Rains.

In studies, the ImageChecker identified up to 20.5 percent more cancers.

Radiologist Andrew Brittan, M.D. is excited to have the state-of-the-art CAD system in Salina.  "This is the best thing to hit Salina since mammography.  It's wonderful technology for women's health," he says.

The ImageChecker CAD system has been installed in only about 200 communities throughout the United States.

"One in every eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime," says Terry Hauschel, RT, director of radiology services at Salina Regional Health Center.  "We are pleased that our Breast Diagnostic Center has the most up-to-date equipment to help us detect and treat this disease at the earliest stage."

Hauschel says the goal is that every mammogram taken at Salina Regional's Breast Diagnostic Center will be scanned by the ImageChecker.