Final answer:
The two routine projections/views for mammography imaging are the craniocaudal view (CC) and the mediolateral oblique view (MLO).
Step-by-step explanation:
The two routine projections/views for mammography imaging are the craniocaudal view (CC) and the mediolateral oblique view (MLO). The CC view is taken with the breast compressed vertically between two plates, while the MLO view is taken with the breast compressed diagonally. These views help to detect abnormalities and provide a comprehensive assessment of the breast tissue.
Since a standard x-ray gives only a two-dimensional view, having these two separate views allows for a better assessment of breast tissue. Dense bones and other structures within the body may obscure detailed images in a single-view x-ray, so additional angles can provide a more complete picture. The importance of these standard mammography screenings lies in their role in catching breast cancer early, typically recommended for women aged 50 and older.
While x-rays have been the 'workhorse' of medical imaging, recent advancements have allowed for more sophisticated techniques such as computed tomography (CT), which uses computer processing of many x-ray measurements to produce cross-sectional views of organs, providing even more detailed images.