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We performed a retrospective study to determine the sensitivity of mammography in detecting breast cancer arising in women with augmented breasts. Of eight women with breast implants in whom breast cancer developed, six had mammograms before biopsy. Only two of the six cancers were identified mammographically (sensitivity = 33%), and one of these two was seen only in retrospect. In both cases, the mammographic findings suggested a benign rather than a malignant process. All eight women had a palpable mass and early disease, and all are clinically disease-free at present. The sensitivity of mammography in detecting palpable cancers in a control group of women without implants was 92% (118 of 128). For tumors of 2 cm or less, the sensitivity was 88% (58 of 66). These results suggest that the sensitivity of mammography in detecting breast cancer is decreased when implants are present. Further investigations are needed to determine the effects of prostheses on mammographic evaluations.

Sixty-nine patients were evaluated prospectively by sonography and history to determine the presence of cholelithiasis. Sixteen patients (23%) had a positive diagnosis. A control group was also prospectively evaluated. We have determined that patients above age 50 with a permanent ileostomy are at statistically significant risk of having cholelithiasis, and their risk is greater than that of a control group matched for age and sex. Radiologists should recognize this association and carefully evaluate the gallbladder of any patient with a permanent ileostomy who has abdominal pain.