A routine mammogram appointment at Elizabeth Wende Breast Care (EWBC) may seem like a simple exam. However, we utilize an incredible amount of technology in the background to benefit our patients.
There have been many technological advancements in breast cancer detection over the last 50 years. EWBC has been at the forefront of these advancements and continues to investigate and research the newest technology for the benefit of our patients.
The latest buzz in the medical community is using artificial intelligence (AI), specifically artificial intelligence, to interpret radiology exams, such as a mammogram. There are several AI programs available on the market today. However, these programs are not standardized or endorsed by the American College of Radiology (ACR) as a replacement for the expertise of a breast imaging radiologist- the doctor reading your mammogram.
EWBC uses AI in many ways, such as determining breast density (2013), performing cancer risk assessment (2010), and computer-aided detection (CAD,1997). The AI technology we use has been carefully selected to fit the needs of our patients and is complementary to our breast imaging experts.
So, the question remains—will AI replace the radiologist in interpreting mammograms? The answer, at least at EWBC, is no. EWBC is unique because two breast imaging experts read every screening mammogram. Our radiologists read thousands of mammograms each year, and studies have proven that the more radiologists read, the better they are at detecting abnormalities—consistently outperforming artificial intelligence.
Artificial intelligence is a tool to enhance clinical care but should not be used as a stand-in for the expertise of breast imaging specialists. We use versions of AI to determine breast density, cancer risk, and computer-aided detection. Utilizing technology allows us to create individualized results for every patient- much more than just a mammogram.
