Questions, Answers, & Facts

What is CAD?
CAD or Computer Aided Detection is a sophisticated technology that assists radiologists in interpreting mammograms by digitizing the image and analyzing areas on the mammogram that may contain features associated with cancer. The FDA approved the CAD system in 1998 for use with screening mammography.

When is CAD used?
Associated Radiologists will use the CAD system for every screening mammogram performed within our facilities. A screening mammogram is one in which no symptoms are present. If there are breast symptoms, such as a lump, nipple discharge or other breast changes noticed by you and your physician, a diagnostic mammogram will be performed. 

What does this mean to me?

The use of the CAD system for your screening mammogram functions like a “spellchecker” for medical images and it will identify suspicious features that may warrant a second review by the radiologist.  According to a study published in Radiology magazine, the early detection of breast cancer can be improved almost 20 percent through the use of computer aided detection with screening mammography.

Will my insurance pay for CAD?

Medicare and most private insurance companies are reimbursing for CAD. There is an additional fee  for your films to be put through the CAD system. If your insurance does not reimburse for CAD, you will be charged.

For more information about this life-saving technology, visit the manufacturers website.

Click this link below: