Breast Cancer Detection Gets Boost at Queen's

Radiologic Technologist Kristin Oishi places mammography film into Queen's new ImageChecker.

Queen's now has a new device that can double check mammograms, much like a spell checker scans a document. The device, called an R2 ImageChecker, increases earlier detection of breast cancer by 23 percent. Queen's Breast Health Center is the first in Hawai'i to have the technology, and is only one of about 300 places nationwide.

A mammogram is fed into the ImageChecker like paper into a fax machine. It flags potential trouble spots and a paper copy of the image is printed out. Once the radiologist reviews it, the copy is not kept, because the scan has served its purpose. Usually, the computer finds what has already been checked, but also detects areas the best mammographers could miss.

Examining the breast is difficult, because there is no "normal" mammogram. Breasts vary greatly; even the same person can have very different mammograms over time. Radiologists study a mammography on their own first, and then look at the ImageChecker's version. Doctors still hold a decisive edge, detecting 89 percent of cancers. The ImageChecker nets about 80 percent. However, when man and machine are combined, the detection rate goes up to 95 percent. "There is a synergistic effect," says John Soong, MD. "It's a great service for our patients."

An ImageChecker scan highlights areas a radiologist should check.

All those who have mammograms at Queen's benefit from the ImageChecker. It has been shown to be so effective that Medicare reimburses for the extra cost. Most health insurance companies will likely cover it too. Check with your doctor or insurance company about coverage. If covered, it may add a small amount to your co-payment. Even if not covered, many say the extra cost is well worth it. Detecting cancer earlier greatly increases the chances of a complete cure. To schedule a mammography screening, call the Queen's Breast Health Center at 808.537.7555.