An image quality review programme in a population-based mammography screening service

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Public Health
• Medical Imaging Quality Assurance

Background:

• Mammography is a complex radiographic process crucial for public health screening.
• Radiographers significantly influence mammogram image quality (IQ).
• A screening service faced increased mammogram volume without a proportional rise in radiographers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an active radiographer-oriented IQ review program.
• To address potential impacts on mammographic IQ due to increased workload.
• To optimize image quality assurance in a large-scale screening program.

Main Methods:

• Shifted from passive audits to an active, radiographer-focused IQ review program.
• Involved regular review of random digital mammogram samples by radiographers and reference experts.
• Included IQ classification, targeted training, and ongoing monitoring.

Main Results:

• Mammogram volume increased by 127% between 2008 and 2014.
• A temporary rise in poor IQ mammograms was observed in 2012.
• Significant IQ improvement was noted in subsequent review rounds (2016-2018).

Conclusions:

• The active IQ review program proved effective in a challenging, high-volume environment.
• Radiographer engagement and positive attitude are key to successful IQ initiatives.
• The program successfully maintained and improved mammographic quality assurance.