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A screening mammogram that produces a digital image is just as effective at finding breast cancer as a traditional mammogram done with X-rays. The traditional mammogram is called analog mammography. No woman should skip her mammogram because a digital mammogram is not available.
But digital technology offers several potential advantages over the current film method for mammography. Unlike film images, digital images:
Can be stored and transferred electronically
Are less likely to get lost
Can be manipulated to correct for underexposure or overexposure, potentially eliminating the need for another mammogram
Allow radiologists to use software to help interpret or read them
Have a large dynamic range that allows examination of all areas of the breast, despite varying densities
Many of the mammography machines in use today are digital units. The process of getting a digital mammogram is just like a regular mammogram. In fact, the only way you may know what type you get is to ask the technologist working with you.
Martin Health System is a not-for-profit, community-based health care organization