Abstract

MORA, Patricia. Evaluación de los mamógrafos en Costa Rica. Acta méd. costarric [online]. 2005, vol.47, n.1, pp.24-30. ISSN 0001-6002.

Introduction: Due to the increasing incidence of breast cancer in Costa Rican women, an evaluation of national mamographic equipment was conducted. Materials and Methods: From June 2002 to October 2003, 2 of the 3 global indicators of image quality were evaluated, (mean glandular dose and phantom image) in 26 mamography machines. Results: The mean glandular dose found was 1.7 ± 0.60 mGy with a range of 0.8 a 2.56. regarding quality image, 73% of the evaluated equipment was able to see 4 or more fibers, 53% saw 3 or more groups of microcalcifications and 82% saw 3 or more mass groups. Conclusions: All mean glandular doses were below the international reference dose value of 3 mGy. However, the analysis of phantom images showed that only 54% of all the equipment had a total score (sum of mass groups, fibers and microcalcifications) superior or equal to 10, as expected. A correct diagnosis that could eventually save the patient’s life is the main objective of a mammogram; the factors that are degrading the images must be found and it might be necessary to increase the doses to achieve this. This study demonstrates the urgent necessity to introduce permanent quality control programs that will provide excellent images with the lowest internationally recommended doses.

Keywords : Mamografía; calidad de imagen; dosis glandular promedio; maniquí; control de calidad.