Computerized mammography data base systems.

A computerized mammography data base system is a specialized radiology information system that is usually maintained on personal computers and is designed to facilitate the data processing tasks associated with mammography. This article is intended to assist readers in developing an organized approach to evaluating or designing a computerized mammography data base system, and to help in determining if such a system is feasible. Some initial decisions are necessary. Consideration should be given to how mammograms are currently processed in the department to be computerized. It may be helpful to draw a detailed flow chart of the procedures that are followed as a mammogram is acquired and paperwork is assembled, and then chart the flow of information from the mammographer outward (e.g., to a transcriptionist, to referring physicians, to patients). These steps are essential to define how current procedures can be enhanced by computerization and will also indicate current methods that can be modified vs those that personnel are unwilling to change. Such analysis provides a template by which commercially available systems can be evaluated, and it is a necessary first step for those who decide to design a system.