8th Baltic Congress of Radiology

Breast Radiology

oral abstract

In Latvia, during 2019, according to data from National Health Service Republic of Latvia, were sent out of 139428 (100%) invitations for screening mammography examinations, only 54581 (39.1%) were used – obtained results: normal (R1) - 35.8%, potentially benign finding/isolated benign formation (R2) - 55.14%, suspected pathology/local pathological changes (R3) - 7.93%, potential malignancy, suspected malignancy (R4) - 0.97%, proven malignancy/malignancy (R5) - 0.16% of cases [2]. National screening could be successful and the incidence of breast cancer could be reduced, if the response for breast screening programme would be increased up to 75% of the population in target group. Radiographers ability for observance of quality criteria in every projection is important for radiologists to determine appropriate diagnosis and make correct comparision with previous mammography examinations – mammograms should be comparable even if performers varies. To improve response to screening mammography and quality of this examination in 2021 was held course for radiographers: “Mammography methodology of breast cancer screening”. Aim of program was to provide knowledge and practical skills that conform with requirements of the quality criteria for screening mammography images and to develop recommendations to improve performance of projections used in mammography examination.

Tangible assets of program: 1. Material of theoretical lectures; 2. Mammography equipment (available during the practical classes of the course); 3. Additional equipment for mammography equipment (available during the course); 4. Mammography image archive (available during the course practical sessions at the workstation); 5. Radiology information system (available during the course). Learning methods: -lectures; -practical solution of situation tasks; -learning discussions; -demonstration of practical skills in performing standard mammography projections, selection of compression plates, application of compression plates, performance of compression, adjustment of technical parameters, image analysis, marking, processing; -group work. Forms and methodological methods of assessment of learning achievements: Participants who have completed at least 75% of the curriculum and passed a test with a theoretical and practical assessment of 'passed', received a non-formal education certificate for the program. The theoretical test consists of 30 test questions.

Participants of course gained: 1. Theoretical knowledge about the significance, content, organization and quality criteria of the state-organized breast cancer screening program, screening mammography, equipment design, equipment application, image quality criteria, image norms and pathology recognition. Gained understanding of error and risk management in screening mammography. 2. Acquired practical skills in communication with patients performing various situational tasks. Acquired practical skills in filling in medical documentation. 3. Acquired practical skills in the analysis of image quality criteria, recognition of normal anatomy and pathology, as well as the understanding of further action if additional examinations are required. 4. Acquired practical skills in performing standard and additional projections, choosing technical parameters. 5. An understanding of the evaluation of accurate mammography projection has been gained. Improved communication skills.

150 Latvian radiographers and radiology assistants participated in course “Mammography methodology of breast cancer screening”, participants improved their skills and knowledge. The course proved as necessary for radiographers and radiologist assistants, extensive discussion among the participants highlighted significant problems in everyday work.

Program “Mammography methodology of breast cancer screening” provided knowledge and practical skills that conformed with requirements of the quality criteria for screening mammography images, 150 Latvian radiographers and radiology assistants participated in this course. Courses in screening mammography are necessary, during course highlighted significant problems in everyday work. Trainings helps to improve quality of examination.

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