Computer-aided detection (CAD) is a second way to look at a mammogram picture. CAD helps find and magnify any areas of concern found on a mammogram.
You don't have to prepare for the CAD.
Mammogram films are loaded into a special processing unit that will digitalize (computerize) the mammogram images. Using special software, CAD "sees" bright spots that suggest microcalcifications. Any abnormalities that are found are then highlighted or marked on the digitized images.
The radiologist can compare the findings on the original films to the findings of the CAD. The radiologist can decide if the areas marked by CAD are abnormalities that need to be followed up or not.