Related Experiment Videos
Double reading.
1Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. kopans.daniel@mgh.harvard.edu
Radiologic Clinics of North America
|August 16, 2000
Summary
The cost of double reading mammograms varies by method. Computer-aided detection systems may replace human second readers, potentially improving cancer detection without increasing recalls.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Health Economics
Background:
- Double reading mammograms is a strategy to improve cancer detection rates.
- Different approaches to double reading exist, each with varying costs and recall rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the cost-effectiveness of different double reading strategies in mammography.
- To evaluate the role of computer-aided detection (CAD) systems as a second reader.
Main Methods:
- Comparison of costs associated with different double reading methods, including consensus and arbitration.
- Evaluation of computer-aided detection (CAD) systems as a digital second reader.
- Analysis of recall rates and patient anxiety associated with each method.
Main Results:
- The Massachusetts General Hospital method increases recalls and associated costs.
- Consensus-based double reading is labor-intensive but reduces recalls.
- Computer-aided detection (CAD) systems show potential for identifying overlooked cancers but face challenges with false-positive rates.
Conclusions:
- The choice of double reading approach significantly impacts costs and recall rates.
- Computer-aided detection (CAD) systems are poised to become the standard for second reads in digital mammography.
- Optimizing CAD systems to minimize false positives is crucial for widespread adoption.