RadComm Inc. - Mammography Product Descriptions
UNIT #1: MAMMOGRAPHIC POSITIONING, BASIC & ADVANCED
This unit of study provides an explanation of proper breast positioning during mammography. The mammographer will be introduced to the basic screening projections, as well as the advanced diagnostic projections. The mammographer will learn the value of each projection and be able to identify those situations when supplemental views are useful in breast imaging. The switch from analog to digital mammography will also be discussed as well as the differences encountered in patient positioning.
UNIT #2: MAMMOGRAPHY OF THE MALE PATIENT
This unit provides an overview of male breast disease. It examines male breast anatomy, benign breast conditions, and associated risk factors for breast cancer in the male patient. Treatment options and patient prognosis for male breast cancer patients is included. The mammographer will also study standard mammographic positioning for the male patient and alternate projections.
UNIT #3: BREAST IMAGING & ANCILLARY STUDIES FOR DIAGNOSIS
This unit of study provides an overview of the various techniques for breast imaging. The examination of methods will encompass a full spectrum of imaging systems in the United States from 1930 to the present. It includes an explanation of xeromammography, ultrasonography (U/S), thermography, transillumination, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), breast-specific gamma imaging (BSGI), positron emission tomography (PET), digital mammography, computer-assisted detection (CAD). Special procedures such as galactography, pneumocystography, sentinel node biopsy, and additional new diagnostic tools still under investigation are also discussed.
UNIT #4: ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY; BREAST SELF-EXAM; PATIENT HISTORY
This unit of study includes comprehensive information on the anatomy and physiology of the breast. A summary of Breast Self-Examination is included so the mammographer can reinforce the practice of this important procedure to the patient. Additional information pertaining to an accurate and complete patient history is included. The mammographer will better comprehend the importance of the interview process and its correlation with breast cancer risks. In this way, we may better serve as a valuable liaison between the patient and the radiologist.
UNIT #5: BREAST IMPLANTS AND MAMMOGRAPHY
This unit of study provides an overview of breast augmentation. Various types of implants will be discussed as well as various surgical procedures and complications. The mammographer will learn how to manipulate the implanted breast during mammography and recognize important aspects of the patient’s history that will assist in the radiologist’s interpretation. The imaging of breast implants with ultrasound and MRI will also be explained as well as biopsy techniques and breast cancer treatments for women with breast implants.
UNIT #6: ISSUES IN MAMMOGRAPHIC SCREENING & THE SEARCH FOR MICROCALCIFICATIONS
This unit of study provides detailed information on the use of screening mammography in the detection of early breast cancer. The goals and limitations of screening mammography are included, as well as patient compliance. An examination of various ethnic groups identifies breast screening issues specific to those individuals. Evidence that mammographic screening reduces mortality is confirmed in several documented studies. An examination of DCIS and associated microcalcifications follows. A distinction is made between common benign calcifications and suspicious malignant calcifications. Information on magnification technique, specimen radiography and post-lumpectomy care is also provided.
UNIT #7: THE BREAST CANCER PATIENT
This unit of study begins with statistics from the American Cancer Society on breast cancer incidence and mortality. When a patient’s mammogram results in a diagnosis of breast cancer, the shock is accompanied by the mysterious vocabulary of oncology. This course highlights important issues: Biopsy techniques, cancer staging, triple negative breast cancer, genetics, surgical treatments, sentinel node biopsy, reconstruction techniques, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and recurrence. The technologist will also learn how to best support the patient during mammography with effective communication skills. Breast MRI practice guidelines are also presented.
UNIT #8: STEREOTACTIC BREAST BIOPSY
Completion of this study unit satisfies the ACR voluntary accreditation requirements for the mammography technologist. This unit of study provides an overview of breast biopsy procedures with an emphasis on the stereotactic method. The mammographer will be introduced to the various methods of stereotactic biopsy, patient selection, pathological findings, and follow-up patient care. The mammographer will also learn how to best support the patient during a stereotactic breast biopsy.
UNIT #9: BREAST COMPRESSION AND FILM LABELING
This unit of study provides an explanation of proper breast compression during mammography. The mammographer will be introduced to various aspects of breast compression including patient care, physical aspects of compression specific to each manufacturer, and mandatory quality control testing. The mammographer will also learn the advantages of adequate compression and how to best support the patient during breast compression. A review of proper identification procedures according to the ACR’s standardized labeling system is also included.
UNIT #10: MAMMOGRAPHIC QUALITY ASSURANCE & ANALOG QUALITY CONTROL
This unit of study provides an explanation of the relationship between high quality mammography and a comprehensive quality assurance and quality control program. Quality control is a valuable management tool that continually evaluates the quality of medical care we are providing to our patients. This continuing education study unit will enable the mammographer to consistently produce optimal mammograms, from one day to the next. The process of ACR image evaluation is explained as well as corrective actions that should be taken when measures fail. Detailed charts for analog mammography help the mammographer understand failures in the mammographic chain.
UNIT #11: INTERPRETING THE MAMMOGRAPHY REPORT
This unit of study provides an explanation of the recommended terminology used in the mammography report, as recommended by the American College of Radiology. This information will enable the mammographer to differentiate between a negative report with benign findings and a report that identifies abnormal findings. The sensitivity and specificity of mammography, as well as the ACR Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) are explained. Breast Imaging lexicon (terminology) is defined as it relates to the description of masses, calcifications, and areas of asymmetry. The seven assessment categories are also defined and examples of mammography reports are included for review.
UNIT #12: DUCTAL CARCINOMA IN SITU (DCIS)
This unit of study provides an explanation of DCIS, the earliest form of breast cancer typically discovered by microcalcifications on screening mammograms. Magnification technique, biopsy selection, and specimen radiography are discussed. Standard treatment options including surgery, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy are presented with an emphasis on the early detection of breast cancer by routine annual mammography.
UNIT #13: TECHNICAL FACTORS IN MAMMOGRAPHY
This unit of study provides an explanation of the technical parameters involved in mammography. Image quality depends on several factors. In order to practice quality mammography, an understanding of these factors is necessary. Instrumentation, films/screens, breast compression, exposure factors and an overview of the transition from analog to digital mammography are discussed. There is a direct relationship between the physical qualities of mammography and the radiologist’s ability to detect and interpret various features on the image.
UNIT #14: RISK FACTORS FOR BREAST CANCER
This unit of study provides an explanation of the risk factors for breast cancer. The mammographer will be introduced to breast cancer as a disease and learn the current statistical estimates provided by the American Cancer Society. Various risk factors and current research findings will be presented. The mammographer will better understand the importance of presenting this information to the radiologist via the patient breast history form for thorough evaluation of a patient’s risk of developing breast cancer.
UNIT #15: LANDMARK STUDIES IN MAMMOGRAPHY
This unit of study provides an explanation of why we perform mammography in the manner we do. The mammographer will be introduced to a variety of important studies that have influenced the field of mammography. You will be better equipped to answer your patient’s questions regarding annual screening practices and quality control issues. Important studies pertaining to CAD, breast ultrasound and MRI are also included.
UNIT 16: DIGITAL MAMMOGRAPHY
This unit of study compares traditional analog mammography to digital mammography. Equipment variations and a comparison of system components demystify the technical aspects of this new technology. The DMIST study is examined and subtypes of women are identified according to whom benefits the most from digital mammograms. The difficulties encountered with patient positioning and suggestions for corrections are included. FFDM QC requirements for the technologist with corrective actions are also explained.
UNIT 17: TRUTH OR FICTION? MAMMOGRAPHY QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
This unit of study provides a comprehensive resource that addresses common beliefs about mammography and breast pathology. The course is divided into topics and includes questions and answers backed up with clinical trials that will help you respond to your patients’ most baffling statements/questions. For example, breast asymmetry, augmentation, risk factors, breast cancer prevention, call-backs, radiation safety, mammography use in the elderly are just some of the titles that are addressed.
UNIT 18: BREAST PATHOLOGY
This unit of study begins with an overview of breast cancer categories and the American Cancer Society's estimated incidence rates from 2006 to 2010. A review of breast anatomy & physiology is followed by detailed information on breast imaging terminology from the American College of Radiology. The characteristics of masses, calcifications, and other mammographic findings are explained in great detail, and then correlated with numerous illustrations and radiographic images. All benign, high risk, and malignant breast conditions are covered. The unit closes with interesting case reviews that examine the appropriate action of the technologist and radiologist leading to interpretation of the study.
UNIT 19: CURRENT STATUS OF BREAST CANCER DETECTION
This unit of study examines the advancements made in the detection of early breast cancer over the past generation. It begins with a discussion of the various types of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society’s statistics regarding breast cancer incidence and mortality will be examined. A review of breast anatomy, pathology, risk factors, and treatment options, are included. The major achievements in the field of breast imaging and the resulting decrease in mortality rates are covered. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force guidelines, as well as other obstacles hampering our attempts to save women’s lives will be reviewed. The course concludes with an examination of the current environment of breast imaging and a discussion of future trends.
A Visual Mammography Review - INCLUDES DIGITAL MAMMOGRAPHY.
This Comprehensive Study Tool for the ARRT Mammography Registry Exam is available in CD format. The disc contains over 700 slides in PowerPoint format and includes an extensive Glossary of Terms to prepare for the ARRT registry examination. It is arranged by subject matter according to the ARRT Mammography Examination Handbook. This is a non-credit product.
(Power Point or viewer required/downloadable from Microsoft for free).
Mammography Mock Registry Review
This practice test contains 300 questions written according to the ARRT's Content Specifications for The Examination in Mammography.
All ARRT-registry categories are included for study:
- Patient Care: Education and Assessment
- Instrumentation and Quality Assurance
- Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology
- Mammographic Technique and Image Evaluation
- Breast Imaging Procedures
The answers are presented in paragraph form to provide you with a better understanding of the material. When you complete and self-correct this mock registry review, you will be better able to identify those categories in which you need additional study.
This is a non-credit product and is only available only online