Digital Mammography

Digital mammography is the most recent advancement in mammography technology. Digital mammography is similar to traditional mammography, but uses a special computer attached to the X-ray machine that receives the images and immediately converts them into a digital picture on the screen.

The images are transmitted to the computer screen where they can be viewed immediately by the technologist and radiologist. The digital mammogram is then stored on a computer, rather than in a large film envelope. With digital mammography, the magnification of an area, brightness and/or contrast of the film may be adjusted after the exam is completed enabling the radiologist to see certain areas more clearly.

Why Digital Is Better, Faster, and Safer
Compared with x-ray technology, digital is:

Better - because images are more precise, clear and accurate, even in dense tissue.  Digital, in fact, detects nearly twice the breast cancer as film. 

Faster - because images instantly appear on high-resolution monitors for real-time adjustments, allowing them to get a quality picture the first time.  Plus, results can be uploaded, shared and stored easily.  

Safer - radiation exposure is reduced by about 25%, and repeated exposures are usually not necessary.  

Costs versus Benefits
Although your out-of-pocket costs may be more, long-term benefits of this state-of-the-art technology are immense. For example, detecting breast cancer early in the process allows for more treatment options that, in turn, may prevent costly surgeries and recoveries.

Locations
Digital Mammography is conveniently located at the Covenant Breast Health Center at 5400 Mackinaw in Saginaw and the Covenant Breast Health Center of Frankenmuth at 600 North Main in Frankenmuth.