Digital Mammography
Hazleton
Radiology Associates Now Offers Digital Mammography
A New Alley in the Fight Against Breast Cancer
A Lorad Selenia Full Field Digital
Mammography system has been added to an already comprehensive
diagnostic service which includes the only outpatient multi-slice
CT, 1.5
High Field MRI and Vascular and Diagnostic Ultrasound. The new
Selenia system incorporates revolutionary imaging technology
that provides incredibly sharp images. HAZLETON
RADIOLOGY ASSOCIATES is one of the first installations
incorporating this cutting edge technology in the United States.
From the patient's point of view, a digital mammogram
is like the traditional film screen mammogram. Both use x-rays
to generate images of the breast. However instead of using film
to capture and record the image, a digital mammogram uses a
special detector to capture and convert x-ray energy into digital
data. The resulting digital images are immediately available
to the radiologist for diagnosis.
The technology is remarkable because the radiologist
can then view and manipulate the images on high resolution computer
monitors that enhance visualization of the structures within
the breast tissue. The radiologist can also adjust brightness
and contrast, and zoom in on specific areas to help detect small
areas of calcifications, masses and other changes that may be
signs of early cancer.
In addition, this state of the art machine is
equipped with a computer assisted diagnosis or CAD. This highly
advanced software uses a computer to highlight suspicious areas
for further evaluation by the radiologist. This computer acts
as a second set of eyes to detect findings that might otherwise
be overlooked. Hazleton Radiology Associates is the only imaging
facility in the area with the ability to offer this combination
of life saving features.
Digital mammography offers a number of other
practical advantages and patient conveniences. Because there
is no waiting for films to be developed it can significantly
reduce the time patients spend having their mammograms as well
as reduce the need for repeat exams due to over or under exposed
films. Digital images are easily stored eliminating the dependency
on one set of original films, which can be misfiled or lost.
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of
cancer death among women exceeded only by lung cancer. Statistics
demonstrate that one in 8 women will develop breast cancer sometime
in her life. The stage at which breast cancer is detected influences
a woman's survival. If detected early the five year survival
rate is 97%.
Hazleton Radiology Associates is committed
to the fight against breast cancer. If you would like to schedule
a mammogram or just have questions about digital mammography
please don't hesitate to contact us at 455-3608. We are located
at
20 North Laurel Street in the Center City Medical Complex Building.
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2003-2007 Hazleton Radiology Associates.
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