Abstract

1. The quality control of screening mammographyVandenbroucke A. M.D. – De Grave A. M.D.Reference center for breast cancer screening (ASBL) French Community of Belgium Replace with logo Replace with logo Abstract Correct positioning was teached as well as corrects compression and exposure. How to avoid artefacts was also explained. This training and the awareness of the need to reach those quality items has had an impact on the mammogram’s quality. Indeed, at the test organised for the units who failed, positioning much improved and artefacts became scarcer. Seventy five percents succeeded. At the cranio-caudal view (CC): the pectoral shadow must be shown in 20% of the mammograms. The distance between nipple and pectoral must be the same in MLO and CC views in 75% of the mammograms. To succeed the test, the required score must be reach for each of the items. The results were disappointing: Only 40% of tested mammography units succeeded. Inadequate positioning, particularly for the inframammary angle, was the most frequent reason for failure. Radiographers need to be trained for image quality in mammography screening Background In the context of the organised breast cancer screening programme in Belgium, a control of the quality of mammograms has been organised. Methods This control was based on the European guidelines for quality assurance in mammography screening (European Commission). Thirty consecutive negatives mammograms were tested at each mammography units. Eight items were analysed, concerning breast positioning and photo-technical quality: compression, exposure and lack of artefacts. Breast positioning items: At the mediolateral oblique view (MLO): pectoral muscle to nipple level, inframammary angle clearly demonstrated and nipple in profile must be presents in 75% of the mammograms Results of tests: Reasons for failure Conclusion Training in image quality and control are mandatory to obtain high quality screening mammography References Therefore, we organized a theorical and practical formation for radiologists and radiographers European guidelines for quality assurance in mammography screening, januari 2001. European community ccref@ccref.org Printed by