Digital infrared thermal imaging is a technique of imaging the body using a heat sensing thermal camera.
The heat patterns radiated by the body are examined to look for patterns that may indicate the causes of breast pain or problems with breast health which could lead to the development of pathology over time. Digital infrared thermal imaging detects changes in physiology in the body and is therefore different from standard digital mammography. Thermal imaging has the added benefit of being non-contact (no breast compression) and passive (no radiation exposure).
Screening with Thermography
Thermographic images are taken in a relaxing and private setting. The first set of breast images are taken after the patient has disrobed and acclimated to the room’s temperature. These images will sever as the baseline thermal images.
Following baseline images, the patient will submerge their hands in cold water for one minute. Post-cold challenge images will then be collected. When the hands are placed in cold water, an ANS reflex occurs in the breasts, providing objective physiological data.
- Radiation-free
- Painless
- Safe for lactating women
- Images the entire breast
- Compression free imaging
- Fibrocystic breasts imaging
- Safe for augmented breasts
- Post-mastectomy imaging
What other types of evaluations are done with infrared imaging?
Other areas of the body can be evaluated for changes in thermal or temperature patterns and vascular or blood vessel changes. Areas of chronic pain, inflammation, infection, wound healing or disease can be evaluated thermographically to assist the physician with a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Infrared imaging is the test of choice for undetermined pain disorders such as:
- Muscular skeletal disorders including wound healing and chronic pain
- Impaired peripheral circulation including varicosities, peripheral vascular disease or blood viscosity concerns
- Neuropathies
Thermal Imaging is an adjunctive exam that can provide a more comprehensive picture to your on-going monitoring of breast health.
Monthly self-exam, annual physician exam, yearly thermal imaging and mammography when indicated increase the effectiveness of early detection to greater than 95%.
If you would like to schedule a thermography appointment at our Fond du Lac office call 920-922-5433!
