Technologists should be aware thyroid shielding is:

Thyroid shielding in the context of mammography refers to the practice of using a lead collar or similar protective device to shield the thyroid gland from radiation exposure during imaging procedures. The current stance from various professional organizations, such as the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the Society of Breast Imaging (SBI), indicates that routine thyroid shielding is not recommended during mammography.

The rationale behind this recommendation stems from several considerations. One key point is that the amount of radiation exposure to the thyroid during a mammogram is generally very low and poses minimal risk. Additionally, the presence of a thyroid shield can potentially interfere with the quality of mammographic images by causing artifacts or obscuring breast tissue, which could hinder accurate diagnosis.

Given this context, understanding that thyroid shielding is not recommended is critical for technologists to ensure optimal practice. They must balance the need for patient safety with the efficacy of the imaging technique. This awareness helps maintain image quality while adhering to current guidelines to minimize unnecessary interventions or complications during mammographic procedures.