Higher digital mammography recalls represent temporary problem

September 5, 2008 Diagnostic Imaging. Higher digital mammography recalls represent temporary problem Learning curve in mixed radiologic environments leads to bump in repeat exams that may fade with growing familiarity BY STAMATIA DESTOUNIS, M.D. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As imaging centers convert their workflow to capitalize on the benefits of digital mammography, some radiologists are concerned about the possibility of an increase in the number of patients recalled. Discrepancies between prior screen-film exams and current digital images lead many radiologists to act "better safe than sorry" in their diagnostic interpretation of full-field digital mammography images. Radiologists may find themselves recalling patients with benign abnormalities that would previously have been excused if imaged on the familiar screen-film modality. The ambiguity that prompts these recalls is attributed to a learning curve, as breast imagers become acquainted with the mechanics of digital workflow. The recall rate for FFDM will likely decrease, however, once radiologists and their staff become familiar with digital images.

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