What is the purpose of performing a rolled projection in mammography?

The purpose of performing a rolled projection in mammography is to separate superimposed tissues. This technique involves rolling the breast in a specific direction while obtaining images. By doing so, the radiographer can adjust the angle of the x-ray beam relative to the breast tissue. This approach helps to distinguish overlapping structures, such as ducts and fibroglandular tissue, that may obscure clarity in standard mammographic views. By separating these tissues, the rolled projection increases the likelihood of identifying abnormalities that might otherwise be hidden due to the superimposition of normal breast anatomy. This is particularly important in ensuring accurate diagnosis, as overlapping tissues can sometimes mimic or mask pathological findings.