Press Release
Elmhurst Memorial Healthcare completes conversion to digital mammography
For immediate release, June 29, 2009
Contact
Kyle Bauer, Public Relations Coordinator, 630-993-5702
ELMHURST – Elmhurst Memorial Healthcare's (EMHC) conversion to digital mammography is now complete. The health system recently finished replacing its remaining traditional X-ray film equipment with advanced technology that provides superior image quality.
Similar to a digital camera, a digital mammogram instantly produces a clear image that can then be magnified or enhanced, improving the chances of detecting subtle abnormalities such as faint masses or small clusters of microcalcification. Digital mammograms have been shown to be more accurate, particularly for women who are younger than 50, have dense breasts or are pre-menopausal. In many cases, digital mammograms are able to pinpoint more serious cancers earlier, meaning treatment can begin sooner.
"The process is the same as with an analog screening so patients will not notice any differences," said Al Pakalniskis, M.D., chairman of the department of Radiology at EMHC. "The real difference is in the quality of the digital image, which is more detailed."
Dr. Pakalniskis also noted that the digital images are available to Radiologists quicker, which means patients receive their results sooner.
"There is no wait time for film to be developed so images can be reviewed in the exam room to evaluate their quality," he said. "The files are then instantly available in our system and ready for review. And because they can be accessed from almost anywhere, there is the opportunity for collaboration between clinicians who can view them simultaneously at multiple locations."
Digital mammograms can be performed at three convenient EMHC locations - the Elmhurst Memorial Center for Health, the Elmhurst Memorial Lombard Health Center and Elmhurst Memorial Hospital, where mammography suites were recently redesigned.
"Along with the conversion to digital mammography, we took the opportunity to enhance the experience at the Hospital," said Brad Reed, director of Radiology. "We updated the mammography suites using concepts and materials that are being considered for the new Elmhurst Memorial Hospital when it opens in 2011. We've created a warm, soothing environment that allows our patients to remain in a comfortable, private setting."
To schedule a digital mammogram at an EMHC location, please call (630) 941-4511.