Self-compression mammography gives same image quality as standard compression: Study

Italy: Mammograms performed with self-compression compared to radiographer-led compression of breasts helped to achieve stronger breast compression with comparable image quality, says a recent study published in European Radiology. Also, the proportion of women who attended follow-up mammography eas also found to be similar in the two groups. 

Appropriate compression is said to be essential in mammography in order to obtain high image quality and reduce dose. compression however can cause pain and discomfort. It has been proposed that self-compression reaches better compression and possibly increase participation in mammography.

Against the above background, Paolo Giorgi Rossi, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale – IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, via Amendola Reggio Emilia, Italy, and colleagues conducted the study with the objective to test the efficacy of self- compared to radiographer-led compression to reduce the average glandular dose without affecting image quality and compliance to follow-up mammography.

For this purpose, the researchers included women presenting for mammography for breast cancer follow-up, symptoms, opportunistic screening, or familial risk. They were randomized to self-compression or radiographer-led compression. Two independent radiologists and two radiographers blindly assessed image quality. Measurement of pain and discomfort was done immediately after mammography and their recall was asked when the women participated in the follow-up mammogram, 1 or 2 years later.