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Detection of Architectural Distortion in Prior Mammograms via Analysis of Oriented Patterns
Published on: August 30, 2013
Why does it take longer to read digital than film-screen screening mammograms? A partial explanation
Tamara Miner Haygood1, Jihong Wang, Deanna Lane
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Unit 1273, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA. Tamara.Haygood@mdanderson.org
Journal of Digital Imaging
|February 14, 2009
Summary
Digital mammograms (DM) take longer to interpret than film-screen mammograms (FSM). Computer manipulation and longer viewing times for DM contribute to the increased interpretation duration.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Digital screening mammograms (DM) are increasingly used but reported to have longer interpretation times than film-screen mammograms (FSM).
- Understanding the factors contributing to this time difference is crucial for optimizing workflow in radiology departments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the specific components of the mammogram interpretation process that contribute to the longer reading times associated with digital screening mammograms (DM) compared to film-screen mammograms (FSM).
Main Methods:
- A previous study's timed readings were utilized, focusing on computer manipulation times for DM and physical adjustments for FSM.
- Interpretation times were analyzed by subtracting manipulation times to estimate decision-making times for both modalities.
Main Results:
- Computer manipulation times for DM varied significantly (11 s to 113.8 s) depending on the complexity of image handling, while FSM adjustments were quicker (8.3 s to 12.1 s).
- Estimated decision-making times were substantially longer for DM (128.0 s to 202.2 s) compared to FSM (60.9 s to 146.3 s).
- Radiologists also appeared to spend more time actively viewing DM images before reaching a decision.
Conclusions:
- Computer manipulation contributes to the extended interpretation duration of digital screening mammograms.
- Radiologists' increased visual engagement with digital mammograms also plays a role in the longer reading times, suggesting workflow and display optimization may be needed.
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