Who interprets the digital infrared imaging?
The well-trained and experienced clinical thermologists at Thermography Interpretation Services. Learn more at www.thermdoc.com
Is Digital Infrared Imaging Safe?
The procedure is completely safe.
Does Digital Infrared Imaging replace mammograms?
Absolutely not! However, do mammograms replace digital infrared imaging (DII)? The answer to this is also a resounding no; the two tests complement each other. DII is to be used in addition to mammography as part of a woman’s regular breast health care. The consensus among health care experts is that no one procedure or method of imaging is solely adequate for breast cancer screening. The false negative and positive rates for currently used examination tests (including DII) are too high for the procedures to be used alone. However, DII may pick up thermal markers that may indicate the risk of cancers missed by other tests. A positive infrared image is also the single most important marker of high risk for developing breast cancer. It is DII’s unique ability to monitor the abnormal temperature (physiological) changes produced by pathological breast tissue that allows for extremely early detection. Since it has been determined that 1 in 8 women will get breast cancer, we should use every means possible to detect these tumors when there is the greatest chance for survival. Adding these tests together increases the chance for early detection.
How long does it take?
For your initial breast thermogram we set aside 1 hour to make sure that all your questions are answered. The procedure itself is very quick (approximately 20-30 minutes). For upper and lower body series or a full body series (full body includes breast images) 60 to 90 minutes.
Will my insurance cover the thermogram?
This all depends on your individual insurance coverage. Some companies cover the procedure while others do not. We do not bill any insurance companies and our policy is to receive payment at the time of service.
Is Digital Infared Imaging (DII) approved by the FDA?
The FDA in 1982 approved DII as a breast imaging procedure to be used with other imaging test and examination procedures.
Can breast thermography detect cancer?
No, only a biopsy can detect cancer.
At what age should I have my first Thermogram?
Breast Thermography Guidelines
Initial infrared scan by age 20
20-30 years of age – every 3 years
30 years of age and over – every year
Source: American Cancer Society – Breast Cancer Guidelines and Statistics, 2009-2010
Why do I need a follow up thermogram?
Your initial thermogram is considered your baseline. A follow up appointment will help to establish what if any changes that might be occurring in the breast tissue.
Can I do a thermogram if I am pregnant?
Yes, thermography is completely safe for you and your unborn child.
Can someone with breast implants do a thermogram?
Yes, there is no risk to any harm being done to the implants.
What if I have dense breast, can I do a thermogram?
Yes, thermography is looking to detect heat patterns and blood flow in body tissues that can alert us that a potential concern may be developing.