As we celebrate World Radiography Day, we’re taking a moment to spotlight the field of mammography— a specialism within radiography that plays a crucial role in the early detection and follow up of breast cancer and other breast diseases.
Mammography, a specialised X-ray imaging technique, is used both as a screening and diagnostic tool, allowing for early detection of cancers that are often too small to feel or see through physical examination alone.
Mammograms, or breast X-rays, are performed by specially trained professionals including radiographers, mammography associates, and assistant practitioners. Using advanced, specialised equipment, they produce high-quality images that enable the identification of breast abnormalities in their earliest stages. This can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes for patients.
Extending the scope of patient care
Within the breast imaging department, some radiographers extend their expertise even further by pursuing advanced qualifications, to become enhanced and advanced practitioners. In these roles, they take on additional responsibilities, including the interpretation of mammographic images and the performance of X-ray guided biopsies, broadening the scope of patient care that radiographers provide within breast services.
One enhanced practitioner is Adele McGrath, a specialist breast radiographer at the Northern Health and Social Care Trust breast imaging and assessment unit. Adele describes her role as one that demands “a high degree of emotional intelligence, excellent communication, good teamwork, and time management skills.”
Compassionate care for patients facing uncertainty
For Adele, providing mammography services to symptomatic patients in the hospital clinic requires a compassionate approach, as these patients often face significant anxiety. She explains, “It is important that the team and I create a caring, supportive environment. In our symptomatic clinic, I perform mammograms and further additional views as requested by the radiologist or, in some sites, a reporting radiographer. I also set up patients for stereotactic breast biopsies and/or assist in ultrasound.”
Reflecting on her role, Adele shares, “It might sound like a cliché, but we really are saving lives through early cancer detection. Being able to put patients at ease during one of the most challenging times in their lives and seeing them return for their follow-up appointments each year, makes you realise you are part of a very important service and are making a difference.”