Radiographers' ability to perceive and classify abnormalities on mammographic images — results of a pilot project

Abstract

Purpose: The literature indicates that image interpretation as a developing role for radiographers is becoming more popular overseas. However, little is known about the ability of Australian radiographers to interpret radiographic images. The aim of this study is to provide pilot data to determine how well radiographers, without formal image interpretation training, can read mammograms. Methods: Twelve radiographers employed by the BreastScreen Queensland screening service were divided into two equal groups based on years of mammographic imaging experience. Each participant was asked to interpret a purposive image set containing 60 two-view primary screening bilateral mammographic images. The participants were asked to determine if an abnormality was perceived, indicate the location on a breast diagram and then classify the image set according to a 5 point scale; no specific finding, benign finding, probably benign finding, probably malignant finding, highly suggestive of malignancy. Sensitivity and specificity rates for each group was calculated and compared. Results: Compared to the "Gold Standard" outcomes, the sensitivity of Group A in detecting abnormalities which had resulted in a positive screening result was 82.6% as compared to Group B at 77.5%. Specificity demonstrated Group B higher than A: 79.6% compared to 75.4 %. These results were minimally lower than those found in overseas studies. Conclusion: The results indicate that further work in this area is justified to support the training and role development of radiographers in the formal reporting role of screening mammograms.

The Australian BreastScreen workforce: a snapshot

“…6,[8][9][10][11][12] Other options to increase radiographer numbers may include making provisions for Assistant Practitioners, following the UK four tier model 13 or allowing male radiographers to perform mammograms in the currently female dominated BreastScreen setting. The Newcastle BreastScreen Service recruited radiographers from overseas (mainly the UK and Canada) between 1991 and 2004 due to a lack of available mammography trained workers in this country.…”

“…Of radiographers who are employed solely in BSA, 44% spend more than three-quarters (75%) of their working time performing screening mammograms, while 26% spend 100% in screening only roles (Table 3). From other duties performed within their BSA programme, the majority of radiographers undertook quality assurance duties (33) with relatively few radiographers undertaking training of staff (8) and breast ultrasound (7) ( Table 4).…”

The influence of breast density and key demographics of radiographers on mammography reporting performance – a pilot study

“…Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide 1 . Early detection is key to decreased morbidity and mortality with dedicated screening programmes available in many countries worldwide including, Australia, 2 the United States, 3 and the United Kingdom 4 .…”

Radiographers as screen readers – are we there yet?

“…Radiographers as screen readers in Australia has been the recent focus of articles published in Th e Radiographer [1][2][3] and elsewhere. 4,5 Th is renewed interest prompts a review of the current situation in Australia together with considerations of a way forward.…”

“…Th e accuracy of radiographer screen readers and the benefi ts they bring to screening programs have been emphasised in publications overseas. 6 Articles by Moran, et al 2,4 and Holt, et al 1 have demonstrated the potential for selected Australian radiographers with training to take on the role of screen readers. Th ese are encouraging results.…”