Women's Imaging News

Breast Care Center at Northside Hospital-Forsyth in Georgia has started to offer its patients a new service, digital breast tomosynthesis, which is widely known as 3D mammography. The new service is available thanks to a new Selenia Dimensions ... Read more

NYU Langone medical center in New York has recently started offering a new mammography service. Patients can now have the results of their scans on the same day. This service means a lot since patients usually had to wait for days or even weeks ... Read more

Professor Dr Yip Cheng Har, consultant breast surgeon at Universiti Malaya in Malaysia, said that doctors who detect high breast density in their female patients should tell them about the link between the high density and breast cancer. Doctors should also encourage these patients to go for regular mammography screening for breast cancer. Professor Har said that a lot of doctors find it difficult to explain to their patients the link between breast density and breast cancer as patient may become anxious. Yet, this information can be important to guide these women to undergo regular mammography screening and thus save their lives. Professor Har explained “Currently, radiologists do not record breast density readings and women in the category may want to ask for this to be done,” She also highlighted that younger women normally have dense breast tissues, but this is considered abnormal among older ones. Mammography scans on dense breast tissues are always harder in interpretation. This is why women with dense breast tissues are recommended to carry out physical self-examination of the breast, along with mammography, on regular basis to detect any abnormalities at early ... Read more

European mammography clinics mark milestone in the struggle against osteoporosis One thousand women in Europe at very high risk of contracting osteoporosis have now been identified as a result of the Sectra OneScreen online service. Women who can now drastically reduce the risk of painful fractures because inexpensive and effective treatment of the disease is available. Increasing numbers of mammography clinics throughout Europe are using this service to screen for osteoporosis, an initiative that enhances women’s quality of life, reduces unnecessary suffering and enables major savings in healthcare by reducing the number of fractures caused by osteoporosis. “Regular mammography examinations are natural for most women. Now there is an effective method that enables the early identification of osteoporosis at the same time using bone-density measurements. This may mean that many women will avoid unnecessary suffering,” says Torbjörn Kronander, President of Sectra’s medical operation. Osteoporosis is an underdiagnosed disease and there is great need for simple, cost-effective methods of identifying patients in need of treatment. With Sectra’s method, an x-ray of the hand provides the basis for an osteoporosis diagnosis. The image is taken at the same time as the breast images during the mammogram and using the same digital radiology equipment. The extra examination takes less than 30 seconds. An Internet connection and a digital radiology equipment are required for using this service. About Sectra’s online service Osteoporosis can be identified by measuring bone density. Sectra’s analysis of bone density is conducted using Sectra’s patented technology, Digital X-ray Radiogrammetry (DXR). With the help of this technology, women in the osteoporosis risk group can be identified and offered further examination and treatment. Sectra’s online service is ideal for use in identifying and prioritizing those women who should be examined using DXA measurement, a technique for analyzing bone mass that is more expensive and considerably more time-consuming than DXR. Sectra’s online service for the analysis of osteoporosis is currently used in the UK, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Norway and Sweden. Facts about osteoporosis [1]     Some 52 million people in the US are estimated to suffer from osteoporosis.     2 million osteoporosis-related fractures, primarily radio carpal, hip and vertebra fractures, occurs in the US annually.     The disease is caused by an imbalance in the remodeling of the skeleton, which in turn can be caused, for example, by an unhealthy lifestyle, genetic factors or drugs used to treat other diseases.     Affects one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50.     One of the diseases causing the highest economic burden for healthcare. [1] International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) http://www.iofbonehealth.org/ For additional information: Dr. Torbjörn Kronander, President, Sectra Imtec AB, +46 705 23 52 27 Press room: www.sectra.com/medical/press/ Press images: flickr.com/photos/sectramedicalsystems Video: www.sectra.com/onescreen/demo About Sectra Sectra develops and sells IT systems and services for radiology, women’s health, orthopaedics and rheumatology. More than 1,100 hospitals, clinics and imaging centers worldwide use the systems daily, together performing over 55 million radiology examinations annually. This makes Sectra one of the world-leading companies within systems for handling digital radiology images. In Scandinavia, Sectra is the market leader with more than 50% of all film-free installations. Sectra’s systems have been installed in North America, Scandinavia and most major countries in Europe and the Far East. Sectra was founded in 1978 and has its roots in Linköping University in Sweden. The company’s business operations include cutting-edge products and services within the niche segments of medical systems and secure communication systems. Sectra has offices in 12 countries and operates through partners worldwide. Sales in the 2010/2011 fiscal year totaled SEK 784 million. The Sectra share is quoted on the NASDAQ OMX Stockholm AB exchange. For more information, visit ... Read more

Hologic, Inc., a leading provider of medical imaging systems and other products addressing women’s health, announced that it will introduce 4 new solutions at the European Congress of Radiology (ECR). The event will take place in Vienna, Austria, next month. First, Hologic is introducing its Selenia Dimensions breast tomosynthesis system. The latter received approval to be sold in the US since February 2011. It is also marketed through Europe starting from 2008 after receiving the CE mark. Hologic’s Selenia Dimensions tomosynthesis system overcomes the main limitation of the traditional 2D mammography, which is the superimposition of normal breast tissue. Thanks to the new technology, breast cancer screening will include higher cancer detection rates than what is achieved via conventional mammography. Hologic is also going to highlight two new innovations linked to the Selenia Dimensions system. These innovations are the C-View synthesized 2D images and ImageChecker 3D Calc computer-aided detection. The C-View image reconstruction algorithm generates synthesized 2D images using the database of Selenia Dimensions tomosynthesis system. This innovation means that there is no need for 2D screening exposures, and thus it results in reduction of breast compression time and the dose of radiation delivered during imaging. Hologic's ImageChecker 3D Calc computer-aided detection uses complicated algorithms to scan tomosynthesis database for microcalcifications. The latter is considered as a precursor for breast cancer. The final innovation from Hologic is the Trident specimen radiography system. The latter is a cost-effective workflow solution that focuses on obtaining surgical specimen and the requirements of biopsy ... Read more

MAMMOMAT Inspiration installation delivers “superb” image quality for clinicians and improves patient care BMI The Clementine Churchill Hospital in Harrow has migrated to digital mammography for the first time, following the installation of a MAMMOMAT Inspiration™ from Siemens Healthcare. The system replaces a previously installed analogue system at the hospital, enabling clinicians to rapidly view detailed high quality images at a low dose and assist with operator confidence. The ease-of-use of the MAMMOMAT Inspiration also enables clinicians to spend more time with patients, improving patient care in the process. OpView® 2 image processing software on the Inspiration allows for excellent image quality, with new algorithms providing enhanced sight of masses and microcalcifications. Furthermore, the system is upgradable, allowing healthcare organizations to install further applications, such as a stereotactic biopsy module and 3D imaging with tomosynthesis, at any point in the system’s life. “The installation of the MAMMOMAT Inspiration is a first for BMI The Clementine Churchill Hospital, as we make the transition from analogue to digital mammography,” explains Magda Coetzee, Director of Diagnostics and Physiotherapy Services at BMI The Clementine Churchill Hospital. “The system is user friendly and staff are extremely impressed with its superb image quality, with a notable difference over analogue systems. The installation of the MAMMOMAT Inspiration has also enabled an ease of process, allowing our radiographers to spend more time with the patient, and has opened the door for additional digital installations at the department in the future.” “The installation of the MAMMOMAT Inspiration offers clinicians and patients at BMI The Clementine Churchill Hospital a number of key benefits, not least high quality imaging to assist with confident diagnosis,” said Andreas Hadjiphanis, Regional Sales Manager at Siemens Healthcare. “The transition to digital mammography will also benefit hospital staff and patients through improved workflow and ergonomic design.” About Siemens Healthcare The Siemens Healthcare Sector is one of the world's largest suppliers to the healthcare industry and a trendsetter in medical imaging, laboratory diagnostics, medical information technology and hearing aids. Siemens offers its customers products and solutions for the entire range of patient care from a single source – from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, and on to treatment and aftercare. By optimising clinical workflows for the most common diseases, Siemens also makes healthcare faster, better and more cost-effective. Siemens Healthcare employs some 51,000 employees worldwide and operates around the world. In fiscal year 2011 (to September 30), the Sector posted revenue of 12.5 billion euros and profit of around 1.3 billion euros. For further information please visit: www.siemens.com/healthcare. For more information or images please contact: Marc Gossage / Jon Wilcox Media Safari T: 01225 471202 E: jonw@mediasafai.co.uk Siemens Healthcare Laura Bennett T: 01276 696374 E: laura.bennett@siemens.com W: ... Read more

According to a recent review, routine mammography screenings for breast cancer, offered to women in younger ages, are of limited value for women with low or average risk of the disease. The review indicated that for every woman, at the age of 50, ... Read more

Waupun Memorial Hospital, in Waupun, WI and a part of the Agnesian HealthCare, has started to offer its patients Stereotactic Breast Biopsy system. The latter represents the latest breast screening technology. The new technology, along with the recently added digital mammography, means that women living in Waupun are now offered complete breast care service. Dr. Karen Reynolds, MD, a board-certified general surgeon serving at the hospital, said that Stereotactic breast biopsy represents the latest solution in accurate differentiation between benign and malignant breast lesions. In addition, the solution is pain-free and less invasive option to acquire breast biopsies. Dr. Reynolds explained “The stereotactic breast biopsy method can be used to identify breast cancer at every stage, but is most beneficial to those with early stage breast cancers,” she added “Women can obtain a highly-specific result with minimal intervention and discomfort.” Stereotactic breast biopsy technique is used after mammography to acquire biopsies. The results of the latter are prepared much quicker than those of traditional biopsy procedure. Stereotactic breast biopsy is carried out by a radiologist and the procedure takes place after recommendation of the surgeon of the patients. Fred Klein, MD, Radiology medical director at Waupun Memorial Hospital, explained “These imaging-guided biopsies typically involve smaller samples, and therefore produce less trauma to the breast and patient,” adding “The number of cases done surgically nowadays compared with 10 years ago is significantly reduced.” Stereotactic breast biopsy starts with asking the patient to lie, face down, on a table. The biopsy system then uses its 3D reconstruction features to locate, precisely, the site of the breast lesion. A local anesthetic is then used before a radiologist use low-dose X-ray to locate the lesion. Tissue sample is then acquired and the biopsy result is ready within 48 hours. Dr. Reynolds said “The need for high-quality, up-to-date breast healthcare in the greater Waupun area has driven the need for a stereotactic machine,” She concluded “Breast cancer can be a very emotional time. We hope that by providing all- inclusive care at one facility we can minimize or at least reduce some of the emotions. We strive to provide excellent, up-to-date care for all our patients and this is just one more example of Agnesian HealthCare’s commitment to Waupun and the surrounding ... Read more

Breast augmentation has become one of the most common cosmetic surgeries performed on women worldwide. In the United States alone, the number of women who chose to have breast implants increased by 39 percent during the past decade according to statistics released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 296,203 women underwent breast augmentation in 2010, compared to 212,500 women in 2000. The most common breast implants used in augmentation surgeries are based from either silicone or saline. Silicone implants use an elastomer silicone shell that is filled with silicone gel. Saline implants also use an elastomer silicone shell, but they are filled with a saline solution. Saline implants require smaller incisions than silicone implants and leave behind less noticeable surgical scars after the patient has recovered. Women who receive saline implants typically report favorable results with breast size contour and feel compared to silicone implants. Still, a number of cosmetic issues can also occur when saline implants are used in breast augmentation. Saline implants are delicate and can ripple or wrinkle beneath the skin especially if the patient has a small amount of breast tissue before implantation. Silicone implants are a better option for a patient with thinner breast tissue because they offer more support to the existing breast tissue around the implant. One common concern with both silicone and saline implants is their limited shelf life. Eventually some implants can wear out and leak fluid into the chest and cause a host of complications. Capsular contraction is also a common medical issue with implants. It occurs when thick fibrous capsules form around the implant and cause it to compress. This leads to pain and discomfort for the patient and can cause damage to the implant. Silicone implants have also been linked by some researchers to an increased occurrence of systemic diseases and development of different types if cancer in women. Psychological issues can also result from breast implant complications and a patient's mental health must be taken under consideration before they can undergo any breast augmentation. A research team led by Judit E. Puskas explored possible applications of nanotechnology to breast augmentation and relayed the findings of their research in a recent review published in a September issue of WIRE's Nanomedicine and Nanobiotechnology, “Breast implants: the good, the bad and the ugly. Can nanotechnology improve implants?”. Authors, Judit E. Puskas and  Matthew T. Luebers are both part of an interdisciplinary group that pursues research to reduce capsular contracture to help woman who suffers from such effect.  Lead editor Puskas, Ph.D., of the University of Akron thought that nanotechnology could be used to develop alternative breast implants and help reduce or eliminate potential complications that develop from using silicon. Nanotechnology used in breast augmentation could be a step towards making implants from safer material that will last longer inside a woman's body because it would reduce the size of the components used in the implants. An added bonus is the nanotechnology could also be utilized as a drug delivery system. It could house drugs that fight breast cancer, for example, and deliver those drugs locally. This would improve the efficiency of the treatment in eradicating cancer cells and also reduce the side effects typically felt by a cancer patient when they undergo chemotherapy. Dr.Puskas said: “If successful, our material could be used for implants with drug delivery capabilities. We are hoping that this review will contribute to a better understanding of the controversial issues and motivate material scientists and medical doctors to work together to develop alternatives based on new nanotechnology for the women who opt for a device made of synthetic materials.” Nanotechnology is seen as a potential improvement over silicon or saline implants because it does not carry the same inherent risks as those materials. If using nanotechnology can improve or enhance breast augmentation, many women will see a direct benefit from these advances since the number of women who choose to undergo this surgery continues to increase from one year to the next. Consult plastic surgeons in California or in your area if problem occurs with regards to your breast ... Read more

In a recent announcement, Margaret W. Niedland Breast Center at Jupiter Medical Center said it has acquired two systems providing high quality breast imaging solutions. The facility now is offering breast tomosynthesis and positron emission mammography (PEM); both technologies will significantly help in earlier detection of breast cancer. Margaret W. Niedland Breast Center became the only facility in Palm Beach and Martin County that provides breast tomosynthesis for its patients. This technology generates 3D images of the breast, with high quality, helping in accurate and earlier detection of breast cancer. PEM, on the other hand, is provided for the first time to the patients in Palm Beach and Martin. The technology is able to detect the smallest breast tumors. This capability means higher cancer detection rate and higher cure rate. Lee Fox, M.D., chief of radiology at Jupiter Medical Center, said “These are key additions to our arsenal in the fight against breast cancer,” adding “As a truly comprehensive breast center, offering every diagnostic modality now available enables us to customize the best approach for patients’ individual needs.” Dr. Fox continued “Breast tomosynthesis is extremely useful, especially for screening women who have dense breast tissue. On a traditional digital mammogram, dense breast tissue appears white and can hide masses, such as cancer. Breast tomosynthesis overcomes this obstacle and has been proven to provide an 8 percent increase in breast cancer detection with a 25 percent decrease in callback rates to find those ... Read more

Provena United Samaritans Medical Center, based in Danville, IL, has recently received a 3-year accreditation from the American College of Radiology (ACR). The accreditation was awarded in stereotactic breast biopsy, and it recognizes the high level ... Read more

According to a new study, women with breast cancer on their left side who receive radiotherapy are at higher risk of narrowing of the arteries of their hearts. The study was carried out it Sweden and its details are reported in the Dec. 27 online ... Read more