Radiology practice suspends mammography exams after FDA review
A Raleigh, North Carolina-based radiology practice has halted its use of mammography after a review found problems with its quality of images.
The facility—Raleigh Radiology Blue Ridge—is still performing other radiological exams, but has temporarily suspended breast imaging after the Food and Drug Administration and American College of Radiology revoked its mammography accreditation.
As part of their review, the ACR analyzed a small sample of mammograms completed at the Blue Ridge location over a two year period, beginning Nov. 7, 2017. Most of the images were acceptable, but there were enough quality problems to force Blue Ridge to shut down that specific modality.
There were no instances in which cancer or any other diseases were missed, according to a statement posted to Raleigh Radiology’s website. No images were overlooked either, the review found.
Raleigh Radiology said it is working with both the FDA and ACR to understand the concerns and remedy the problem. Patients who received a mammogram during the period in question will be notified via a letter from the FDA and Raleigh Radiology.
“We care about our patients’ well-being and remain comfortable that Raleigh Radiology offers high-quality mammography and radiographic services using state-of-the-art equipment,” the Raleigh practice wrote on its website. “We look forward to continuing to meet our patients’ mammography needs and hope to have the mammography services at Blue Ridge restored soon.”
Matt joined Chicago’s TriMed team in 2018 covering all areas of health imaging after two years reporting on the hospital field. He holds a bachelor’s in English from UIC, and enjoys a good cup of coffee and an interesting documentary.