Radiologists have increased their use of computer-aided detection (CAD) in screening and diagnostic mammography, according to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology (2010 Oct;7(10):802-5).
For the study, researchers at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital reviewed codes in records from 2004 to 2008 for screening and diagnostic mammography, as well as screening and diagnostic CAD.
The results of the study revealed that in 2008, of the screening mammograms performed, 74% involved the use of CAD, compared to 39% in 2004. “By 2008, CAD was used in about three-quarters of all screening exams and half of all diagnostic exams,” said Vijay Rao, MD, lead author of the study. “The use of CAD is controversial, while some support it and others are critical of it. Nonetheless, while there remains debate over the efficacy of CAD, it is apparent that radiologists are increasingly utilizing this technology and that it is becoming standard practice in breast diagnosis.” ONA
