Sault Area Hospital mammograms go digital

NEWS RELEASE

SAULT AREA HOSPITAL

************************* Mammography goes digital at SAH

SAULT STE. MARIE - (April 3) - Sault Area Hospital (SAH) has recently introduced CR (computed radiography) mammography, an addition that completes the move to a now completely “filmless” diagnostic imaging department.

CR mammography captures and stores images of the breast in digital format which allows the radiologist to manipulate the images (i.e. zooming and changing brightness/contrast) and interpret results on a high resolution computer screen.

“This new technology is an excellent addition to the diagnostic imaging (DI) department at SAH and we’re excited by the enhanced diagnostic capabilities,” says Dr. Jeff Jenkin, chief of diagnostic imaging at SAH.

“Though the process remains the same for the patient, CR mammography allows the radiologist to see more, making it easier - and in some cases faster - to accurately interpret results, ultimately resulting in better patient care,” he explains. “Furthermore, it allows for better communication with the surgeon or other physicians caring for the patient.”

According to Marie Paluzzi, director of clinical support services at SAH, the addition of CR mammography was the direct result of the recent implementation of the hospital’s picture archiving communication system (PACS) and a major step in the transition to a completely digital DI department at the new SAH.

“PACS affords us the ability to digitize the mammography images for our internal use, but also provides the additional advantage of allowing our physicians to share these images electronically via a secure network between hospitals and care providers across the region,” she explains.

SAH worked in tandem with some of its existing suppliers and equipment to effect this significant enhancement at minimal additional expense.

“This project would not have been possible without the tremendous cooperation from our suppliers, who collaborated to ensure the successful interfacing of their respective equipment and platforms,” adds Paluzzi. “Philips and AGFA both demonstrated their commitment to SAH and the professionalism for which we have come to know them.”

Other advantages of a digital environment include the elimination of harsh developing chemicals and the associated storage space required for cumbersome x-ray films, resulting in both environmental benefits and long-term cost savings for the hospital.

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