Paradigm Shifts in Breast Care Delivery: Impact of Imaging in a Multidisciplinary Environment.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The practice of breast imaging in a collaborative multidisciplinary environment adds significant value to outcomes in women's health care. In this article, we describe multidisciplinary considerations in breast cancer screening and early detection, the impact of imaging and histopathologic findings in the diagnostic evaluation and management of breast abnormalities, and the contribution of imaging to surgical and radiation therapy planning for the breast cancer patient. CONCLUSION: The multidisciplinary delivery of breast care for women that incorporates screening, diagnosis of borderline and high-risk lesions, and management of the breast cancer patient adds considerable value to outcomes in health care.