RSNA 2015 checklist: The current state of breast imaging

There are few topics in healthcare generally or medical imaging specifically that garner headlines like breast imaging. From the optimal interval for screening to the role of different modalities and emerging technologies, it’s a topic that has rightfully gotten much attention in recent years.

The annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) is the place where medical imaging professionals come to discuss the topics of the day, and of course there will be plenty of sessions covering breast imaging. Below are a few that caught the attention of our editorial team:

Breast Series: Hot Topics in Breast Imaging

Monday, Nov. 30

8:30 AM-12:00 PM | RC215 | Location: Arie Crown Theater

Moderated by Wendie A. Berg, MD, PhD; Sarah M. Friedewald, MD; & Elizabeth A. Morris, MD

A big topic deserves a big stage, and that’s just what this collection of presentations about breast imaging will get in the Arie Crown Theater. This first leg of a two-part Breast Series features a number of talks on the role of the modalities beyond standard mammography, including ultrasound, tomosynthesis and MRI.

Breast Imaging (Screening Issues)

Monday, Nov. 30

3:00-4:00 PM | SSE02 | Location: E450A

Moderated by Paula B. Gordon, MD & Etta D. Pisano, MD

This collection of talks will tackle breast cancer screening issues from a number of different angles. Researchers will present their findings on false negative rates and discuss the complicated topic of overdiagnosis, and attendees will also hear presentations about balancing benefits and harms.

Breast Series: Emerging Technologies in Breast Imaging

Tuesday, Dec. 1

8:30 AM-12:00 PM | RC315 | Location: Arie Crown Theater

Moderated by Emily F. Conant, MD; Margarita L. Zuley, MD; & Bonnie N. Joe, MD, PhD

The second part of the Breast Series will see a new group of moderators and presenters take the stage for another lengthy, deep-dive into the current research on tomosynthesis, breast MRI and breast ultrasound.

Breast Imaging (Density and Risk Assessment)

Wednesday, Dec. 2

10:30-12:00 PM | SSK01 | Location: Arie Crown Theater

Moderated by Jennifer A. Harvey, MD; Emily F. Conant, MD; & Martin J. Yaffe, PhD

There is growing awareness of breast density as a risk factor in breast cancer among the general public, but exactly what level of risk does highly dense breast tissue present? And how should these risks be communicated to patients? Experts will return to the Arie Crown Theater to discuss these and other pressing density questions.

RSNA 2015 takes place from Nov. 29 to Dec. 4. Visit the conference’s schedule for more information about these sessions and many others.