Breast Thermography Exam Procedure
Preparation for the Exam
The Meditherm Imaging Camera is an advanced and sophisticated device with high thermal sensitivity and tremendous image quality. Consequently, unlike with older generation cameras, patient pre-exam considerations and preparations are minimal. The key general point to remember is that you should avoid things that could impact your body temperature. The following guidelines apply:
- On the day of your exam avoid activities that could significantly impact body temperature. Examples include Saunas, intense physical activity, full body massage, etc.
- Do not consume hot beverages 30 min prior to your exam.
- Showers and baths are permited on the day of your exam but not within 1-hour prior to the exam and do not linger in the hot water.
- Make-up, deodorant, etc are permitted but should be lightly applied.
- We ask that you please put your hair up prior to your exam, or bring with you the necessary pins, clips or bands so that you are able to put your hair up and clear of your face and neck.
The Exam
The exam appointment is scheduled for 30 min. This includes time for you to arrive at the clinic, complete the Thermography Intake Form, acclimatize to the exam room temperature and complete the imaging.
Note: Cold Stressing will NOT be used for your routine exam, meaning that there is no requirement for you to immerse your hands in cold water before imaging. For additional information on Cold StressingPlease Click Here.
Imaging Equipment
At Integrated Health ClinicTM we use the Meditherm med2000 Iris 7.5 Advanced Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging Camera for all exams. This camera maximizes the potential of thermography for the best possible adjunctive diagnosis to aid treatment by delivering a medical grade sensitivity and specificity. The Meditherm med2000 product line has a 20 year history of successful performance and the reliability of the Meditherm med2000™ has been proven in many countries throughout the world. The Iris 7.5 is the Meditherm industry standard flagship and Integrated Health ClinicTM is proud to offer this medical grade imaging technology to our patients.
FAQs
Q. I hear from some people that you need to "cold stress" the patient. What is "cold stressing"? Do I really need to do it?
A. Cold stressing is a test to measure sympathetic function. It is a useful test for a some conditions including RSD (CRPS). Protocols used with the Meditherm system for breast screening do not require routine cold stressing.
Q. Who certifies your thermographers?
A. Thermography technicians are trained by Dr. Peter Leando, Phd, Medical Director of Meditherm, and Board Member of the American College of Clinical Thermology at Duke University. The American College of Clinical Thermology is an accredited medical association.
Q. Who reads the images and reports?
A. Images are sent to an interpretation service who employ medical doctors who are all board certified as Thermologists by the American College of Clinical Thermology at Duke University. These doctors have many years experience and are able to ask for second opinions whenever necessary.
Q. How quickly will I get my report back?
A. Reports are normally ready within 48-72 hours. You may collect your report when it is ready or allow for mailing time. If you need your report within 24 hours you can pay an 'urgent' fee.
We encourage you to visit Integrated Health ClinicTM to meet with our physicians and learn more about Breast Thermography.