Womens Imaging

Women’s imaging encompasses many radiology procedures related to women and the diseases that are most prevalent to women such as breast cancer or gynecological issues. Mammogram, breast ultrasound, breast MRI and breast biopsy are the most commonly used procedures.

Health insurer Highmark will provide 100% coverage for all diagnostic breast imaging
The new policy applies to all health plans across Pennsylvania, New York, West Virginia and Delaware, “removing financial barriers for essential breast cancer diagnostics.”
Hologic issues safety alert for breast biopsy needles
The safety notice was issued due to the risk of pieces of the needles dislodging into tissue during procedures.
North American imaging experts endorse new international breast biopsy guidelines
The group was recently asked to provide input on a new set of recommendations for image-guided biopsies of suspicious breast lesions—offering providers clarity on key clinical scenarios.
American College of Radiology criticizes prominent study pushing for new approach to breast cancer screening
Published Friday in JAMA, scientists recently explored a risk-based mammography tactic that tailors regular imaging regimens to each individual’s danger of developing the disease.
Pre-op MRI not necessary for all breast cancer patients, new data suggest
In some cases, it may actually be more beneficial for this group of women to forego the extra scans, as they can lead to additional testing, costs and potentially delays in care.

ACR CEO outlines top trends in breast imaging

Dana Smetherman, MD, is a diagnostic radiologist who specializes in breast imaging. She spoke to Health Imaging about some key issues that have her attention in 2024 and beyond.

Ultrasound-first strategy most cost-effective for recalled breast cancer screening patients

US-first resulted in an incremental net monetary benefit of about $681 versus using diagnostic mammography first, experts wrote in AJR.

LG rolls out new monitors targeted at mammography reads

The new monitor, which was recently approved by the FDA, is intended to improve the process of reading breast MRIs, mammograms and DBT exams.

Breast arterial calcifications (BACs) identified on screening mammograms may help identify women who face a heightened risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), according to a new analysis published in Clinical Imaging.

Experts call for reporting guidelines for breast arterial calcifications identified on mammo

BACs and cardiovascular risk have been a growing topic of conversation in recent years, as numerous studies have indicated there could be a relationship between the two.

Nearly 40% of women in their 40s would delay mammography screening after learning of its downsides

Many found information about the benefits and harms of mammography "surprising," experts wrote in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Emily Lau, MD, Mass General Hospital, discusses sex differences in cardiovascular presentations of women.

CVD presents differently in women than it does in men—guidelines should reflect that

Emily Lau, MD, a women's health expert with Massachusetts General Hospital, thinks major changes are needed in how we diagnose CVD in women. "Our guidelines need to be more precise and offer sex-specific recommendations," she says.

Structured reporting improves outcomes for patients with placenta accreta spectrum

New data details an association between the implementation of structured templates and a reduction in patients being admitted to the intensive care unit.

Only 17% of patients self-schedule mammograms, with preference for nights and weekends

While the number may appear low, interest in this option continues to increase, noted experts with Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore.

Womens Imaging

Health insurer Highmark will provide 100% coverage for all diagnostic breast imaging

Hologic issues safety alert for breast biopsy needles

North American imaging experts endorse new international breast biopsy guidelines

American College of Radiology criticizes prominent study pushing for new approach to breast cancer screening

Pre-op MRI not necessary for all breast cancer patients, new data suggest