How to Transition to Digital Mammography

To date, the transition to digital mammography has been cumbersome and difficult. In part, this is because digital mammography equipment could not be easily integrated into preexisting picture archiving and communication systems (PACS). Until the results of the ACR Imaging Network® Digital Mammographic Imaging Screening Trial showed that digital mammography is more accurate than screen-film mammography for some patients, users have been reticent to switch. To make the transition as seamless as possible, several considerations should be made. First, an evaluation of a facility's current screen-film situation, including the condition of the analog units, work flow, patient capacity, staffing, and existing PACS components helps in understanding current status more clearly. After that, the facility's goals for a digital department should be determined. Next, the components of the digital imaging chain, the network infrastructure, and the PACS, as well as what clinical aspects each part of the chain affects, must be understood to avoid unexpected frustrations after the conversion is made. Then, education is required on the different acquisition options, display options, printing options, and archival options to facilitate the choice of equipment that will meet the digital goals set forth previously. Finally, a pace of conversion that is best suited to the facility should be determined.