A major new clinical trial is set to launch that will compare the new technology of digital mammography to standard film mammography for the detection of breast cancer.

Digital mammography uses computers and specially designed detectors to produce a digital image of the breast that can be displayed on high-resolution monitors. These images can then be stored electronically and even sent over the Internet to specialists for additional review.

“Digital mammography has the potential to provide better detection of early breast cancer,” said Dr. Daniel Sullivan, who is coordinating the trial for the National Cancer Institute.

“Standard mammography has been the most studied screening technology over the past 40 years,” added Dr. Etta Pisano of the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, the study’s lead investigator.

Pisano said the researchers want to make sure that digital mammography is at least as good as standard mammography at finding early breast cancer before the new technology is recommended for widespread use.

One possible advantage of digital mammography is that it may be more effective in detecting cancers in women with dense breasts. Two previous studies have indicated that digital mammography may result in fewer women being called back for additional testing because of suspicious breast lesions.

The cost-effectiveness of digital mammography will also be evaluated during the trial. Although the equipment for digital mammography costs more than standard film mammography, there may be fewer call-backs or additional office visits with the new technique, resulting in long-term cost savings.

For more information, visit www.dmist.org.