Patient Positioning; Compression - GE SENOGRAPHE DMR+ Technical Publications

GE Medical Systems
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Note:
CAUTION
SECTION 2

PATIENT POSITIONING

Compression

It is advised that sufficient breast compression be used to benefit the following image
quality/dose reduction advantages:
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Compression reduces motion blurring.
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Compression reduces geometric unsharpness by ensuring direct contact between
breast and image receptor, and by spreading apart glandular breast tissue.
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Compression improves film contrast and reduces scattered radiation in proportion to
the the reduction in the thickness of the tissue irradiated.
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Compression spreads the breast laterally, and reduces the breast to a constant
thickness. This may shorten exposure time, and consequently reduce the average
glandular dose.
Good compression is obtained when the breast surface is taut to the touch.
When exposure is complete, automatic decompression is available by pressing the button
on the righthand side of the Control Console. Decompression can also be programmed to
occur automatically after exposure is completed.
As a safety measure, the compression system is fitted with magnetic braking to
avoid the paddle falling in the event of a power cut. If such a power cut occurred
during an examination, a force of around 5 daN could remain on the compression
paddle. To disengage the patient, the paddle should be gently raised to counteract
this compression force.
In the absence of the compression paddle, leave the space free between the bottom of the
paddle arm and the top of the film holder assembly.
Before beginning the mammogram, observe the following points:
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Before positioning the patient, make a visual assessment of the breast area, and note
anything which may affect or be adversely affected by the correct positioning of the
breast for the mammogram, for example, warts, scarring, or skin which is not intact.
In patients with large breasts, perspiration under the breast can cause the skin to
soften, and become paper-thin.
– To position the breast properly for a mammogram in the CC position, it is
essential that the breast is lifted away from the chest wall and gently pulled
forward, in order to visualize the maximum amount of breast tissue. Such pulling
and lifting is necessary for correct positioning, but can cause damaged skin to tear
slightly, and may cause bleeding.
– If any condition exists which may cause unusual discomfort or tearing of the skin,
the patient should be told of the importance of correct positioning, and should be
warned in advance of the possibility that minor tearing and /or slight bleeding
might occur.
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Use suitable techniques for the positioning of patients with breast implants.
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GEMS can take no responsibility for injury to the patient caused by the use of heating
or warming devices external to the system.
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SENOGRAPHE DMR+
om 5128689-2-100