Position paper: recommendations for a digital mammography quality assurance program V4.0.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Quality Assurance

Background:

• Established screen-film mammography QA protocols are insufficient for digital mammography.
• Digital mammography presents new challenges in image quality and radiation dose.
• Teleradiology in mammography requires specific quality assurance considerations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current international and local practices in digital mammography QA.
• To recommend updated quality control (QC) test procedures for the Australasian environment.
• To address the evolving landscape of digital imaging technologies in mammography.

Main Methods:

• Review of current overseas practices and local experience in digital mammography QA.
• Analysis of technological advancements and international consensus on QC tests.
• Inclusion of QA programs for digital biopsy units and digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT).

Main Results:

• Identified the need for updated QA protocols to ensure diagnostic image quality and manage dose implications of digital mammography.
• Recommended specific QC test procedures suitable for the Australasian context.
• Incorporated guidelines for DBT testing and dosimetry calculations using the Dance et al. methodology.

Conclusions:

• The document provides updated QA recommendations for digital mammography in the Australasian region.
• Continuous review and updates are necessary due to rapid technological advancements in digital imaging.
• Alignment with RANZCR and BreastScreen Australia standards ensures consistent quality and safety.