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Quality assurance results from a breast screening pilot study.
1Department of Physical Sciences, Royal Brisbane Hospital.
Australasian Physical & Engineering Sciences in Medicine
|September 1, 1991
Summary
A new mammography quality assurance program in Queensland successfully identified early chemistry issues and common machine faults. This breast cancer screening initiative ensures high-quality imaging through regular radiographer and physicist tests.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Quality Assurance
Background:
- Breast cancer screening programs require rigorous quality control.
- Accreditation standards necessitate participation in quality assurance.
- A pilot project in South-East Queensland established a mammography quality assurance program.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement and evaluate a mammography quality assurance program.
- To ensure consistent and high-quality mammograms for breast cancer screening.
- To identify common issues in mammography equipment and processes.
Main Methods:
- The program incorporated radiographer tests (daily sensitometry, weekly image quality, monthly focal spot measurements) and annual physicist tests.
- It followed the ACPSEM position paper on quality assurance in mammography.
- Data was collected over 12 months from 17 mammography machines across 6 manufacturers.
Main Results:
- Daily film processor sensitometry proved highly effective in detecting early chemistry problems.
- Annual physicist tests identified x-ray/light field misalignment and poor automatic exposure control as prevalent machine issues.
- The study indicated a need for recalibration of the kVp measuring system.
Conclusions:
- The established mammography quality assurance program is effective in identifying and addressing technical issues.
- Regular testing ensures the quality of mammograms, crucial for accurate breast cancer screening.
- Continuous monitoring and calibration are essential for optimal mammography performance.