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[Consensus double reading of mammograms in private practice].
B Pacher1, R Tscherney, B Litmann-Rowenta
1Radiologie Hernalserspitz, Wien. barbara.pacher@wienkav.at
Rofo : Fortschritte Auf Dem Gebiete Der Rontgenstrahlen Und Der Nuklearmedizin
|December 2, 2004
Summary
Consensus double reading of mammograms by experts is feasible and improves cancer detection quality. This enhanced screening method is highly accepted by patients, with minimal refusal rates.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Mammography is a key tool for breast cancer screening.
- Improving the accuracy of mammogram interpretation is crucial for early detection and patient outcomes.
- Consensus double reading involves two independent experts reviewing images to reach a unified diagnostic conclusion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness and patient acceptance of consensus double reading of mammograms.
- To assess the impact of this method on diagnostic accuracy in a private practice setting.
Main Methods:
- Two trained experts independently reviewed mammograms and sonographic examinations using the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) classification.
- Cases categorized as BI-RADS 4 and 5 were compared with histological results.
- Patient acceptance was assessed via a questionnaire during a three-month trial period.
Main Results:
- Of 57 cases with BI-RADS 4 and 5, 41 reached consensus, identifying 26 confirmed carcinomas.
- In 16 cases without consensus, 5 carcinomas (all <1 cm) were detected by the double reading process.
- A refusal rate of only 0.7% indicated high patient acceptance of the double reading procedure.
Conclusions:
- Consensus double reading of mammograms is a practical and effective method for enhancing diagnostic quality.
- This approach leads to a measurable increase in the detection of breast cancers.
- The procedure is well-accepted by patients, facilitating its implementation in clinical practice.