Digital Mammography Technology Increases Workflow, Speeds Screening at UK Hospital

Four new digital mammography systems have been installed in a UK hospital to improve image quality and speed in screening and biopsy workload.

West Suffolk Hospital (UK), part of the West Suffolk National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, is facing increased workflow following the installation of three static and one mobile Mammomat Inspiration full-field digital mammography systems from Siemens Healthcare (Erlangen, Germany).

The installations mark the breast imaging unit’s transition to digital radiography. The hospital is now experiencing an increase in imaging effectiveness and has reported improved image quality and smoother examinations while maintaining a focus on keeping the dose low. The units are being used for breast screening, assessments, symptomatic mammography, and stereotactic biopsies and localizations.

The Mammomat Inspiration combines ease-of-use with patient comfort. Two of the systems at West Suffolk Hospital are outfitted with stereotactic biopsy modules, which intuitively guide the operator through the entire procedure and directly control the tube angulation from the workstation. With only one click, the system automatically opens the patient scheduler and the user interface is set for the whole exam. Once the target and appropriate needle are selected, the needle-holder automatically moves into the correct position. This increases the speed of procedures without compromising on diagnostic effectiveness.

“Our four new Mammomat Inspirations are easy-to-use and have been a great addition to our breast imaging facilities, giving benefits to both staff and patients,” said Ann Hills, superintendent radiographer at West Suffolk Hospital. “We are very pleased with the image quality; the digital systems have reduced the clinical examination time spent on each patient. Having three static units has allowed us to increase our capacity in line with our recent move to age extension. We are also very pleased with the way that the Mammomat Inspiration works on the mobile screening unit.”

“From screening and diagnostics to stereotactic biopsy and 3D [three-dimensional] breast tomosynthesis, the Inspiration provides one or all applications on a modular basis to meet the strategic needs of breast imaging departments,” said Graham Walker, regional sales and corporate business manager at Siemens Healthcare. “We’re delighted that West Suffolk Hospital is enjoying the breadth and speed of the Mammomat Inspiration, plus producing high quality images in a comfortable environment for the patient.”

Chris Wilkinson, head of sales at Siemens financial services added, “West Suffolk Hospital opted for a Siemens Financial Service equipment lease to finance the new mammography systems. Chosen through a separate competitive tender, leasing this removes the need for a one off capital expenditure payment, spreading the lease payments via the revenue budget, which can assist with asset and financial planning at the Trust. This type of financing model also helps deliver swift access to modern diagnostic equipment to ensure patients the highest standard of care.”

Related Links
West Suffolk Hospital
Siemens Healthcare


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