If you have questions about how women's imaging technology intersects with clinical practice, the upcoming scientific sessions at RSNA 2014 have answers -- or at least, some interesting hypotheses.
This year, researchers are investigating everything from the awareness of primary care physicians regarding breast density notification laws to whether breast MR can effectively rule out malignancy in BI-RADS 0 cases, as well as how PET/MR compares to PET/CT for breast cancer follow-up.
In any case, expect lots of discussion this year about digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), for both screening and diagnostic applications. Studies will explore the use of the technology for preoperative evaluation in women newly diagnosed with breast cancer, how DBT is influencing the BI-RADS 3 category, and what factors contribute to increased radiation dose at tomosynthesis -- as well as many, many other topics, according to scientific program breast subcommittee chair Dr. Emily Conant of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.
"Not only will researchers be discussing the rapidly expanding data on digital breast tomosynthesis outcomes in both screening and diagnostic breast imaging, but also the new reimbursement codes for the technology will be a hot topic at the meeting," Conant told AuntMinnie.com.
There will also be much ado about breast ultrasound, with researchers giving attendees an update on the "Connecticut experiment" -- the original breast density notification law that launched a movement -- discussing whether it's possible to minimize unnecessary follow-up in women who have BI-RADS 3 lesions at screening ultrasound, and explaining whether using breast ultrasound for further assessment after negative mammography spot views does more harm than good.
Looking for ways to recharge your women's imaging knowledge base? Never fear. Along with the scientific sessions, RSNA 2014 is hosting a plethora of refresher courses, starting with a "state of the union" panel on Sunday that will update attendees on current breast imaging controversies and economic challenges, as well as supplemental screening beyond mammography to courses that will explore MR-guided breast biopsy, ultrasound-guided interventional procedures, and emerging breast imaging strategies.
For highlights of just some of the many women's imaging research papers and posters scheduled for presentation at this year's meeting, read on. To view RSNA's complete listing of abstracts for this year's scientific and educational program, click here.
