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When scheduling your next mammogram, you may feel anxious about the discomfort that often accompanies the test. However, new imaging technology is aiming to change that experience for the better.  

The Discomfort and Pain of Traditional Mammograms 

Traditional mammograms utilize X-ray imaging and compression of the breasts, which can cause discomfort for many women. ###The compression required to capture clear images can be painful. The plates used to compress the breasts can pinch the skin and underlying tissue, causing anything from mild soreness to severe pain. For women with dense breast tissue or breast implants, the compression may need to be even tighter to obtain useful images, exacerbating the discomfort. 

Some women find mammograms so painful they avoid regular screening. According to surveys, up to half of women say mammograms are moderately to severely uncomfortable. This discomfort deters some women from following recommended mammogram screening guidelines. When women do not get regular mammograms as medically advised, breast cancers may not be detected early, reducing treatment options and survival rates. 

Women have little control over the compression during traditional mammograms. The radiologist manipulates the compression plates to try and capture the necessary images while attempting to minimize discomfort. However, there is no objective way to determine how much compression is needed or when the optimal images have been obtained. The lack of control and uncertainty about when the compression will end contributes to the anxiety many women feel about mammograms. 

New breast CT imaging technologies aim to eliminate the need for uncomfortable compression while still providing high-quality 3D images for radiologists to review. By giving women more control and comfort during their breast health screening, breast CT could encourage more women to get regular mammograms, enabling earlier cancer detection and better outcomes. While breast CT is still being studied, it offers the promise of painless breast cancer screening and peace of mind for women concerned about the discomfort of traditional mammograms. 

What is a painless mammogram? 

A painless mammogram, also known as a tomosynthesis mammogram, creates a 3D image of the breast using low-dose radiation X-rays and computer reconstruction. Multiple X-rays from different angles are used to produce slice-like images of the breast. This allows radiologists to see through layers of breast tissue to detect any abnormalities. The 3D imaging results in fewer false positives and the need for fewer follow-up tests. The technology also spreads out the compression over the entire breast, resulting in a more comfortable experience for patients. 

How should I prepare for a painless mammogram? 

To prepare for your mammogram, schedule the appointment for one to two weeks after your menstrual period when breast tenderness has decreased. This can help make the procedure more comfortable. On the day of your exam, do not use deodorant, powder, or perfume under your arms or on your breasts as these products may appear on the mammogram and interfere with image quality. You will be asked to undress from the waist up and will be given a gown to wear during your exam. Bring your insurance card and a form of government ID with you. 

Introducing the Koning Vera Breast CT - A Revolution in Mammogram Testing 

The Koning Vera Breast CT (KBCT) is a revolutionary 3D breast imaging device that provides true 3D images of the breast without the need for uncomfortable compression.### Unparalleled Accuracy 

The KBCT offers unparalleled accuracy in breast cancer detection. Unlike 2D mammography, the KBCT scans the breast using a circular trajectory, acquiring hundreds of projection images that are reconstructed into a 3D volumetric image. This allows radiologists to view the breast tissue layer by layer in high resolution, detecting cancers that may be missed using conventional 2D mammography. 

A Comfortable Experience 

The KBCT exam is more comfortable for patients compared to standard mammography. The breast is gently immobilized, rather than compressed, allowing for a relaxed scanning position. This can help reduce discomfort and encourage higher patient compliance with routine screening recommendations. 

The Koning Vera Breast CT represents a new standard of care in breast cancer screening and diagnosis. By providing exquisite 3D detail and eliminating painful breast compression, this revolutionary device aims to make high quality breast CT imaging available to all women. Early detection of breast cancer saves lives, and the KBCT may allow even the smallest of cancers to be detected at the earliest and most curable stage. This technology has the potential to significantly improve breast cancer outcomes through early detection and reduce discomfort for women during routine breast cancer screenings. 

For more information about the Koning Vera Breast CT, please feel free to contact us. 

Sources: 

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/4877-mammogram 
• https://sjra.com/what-are-the-differences-between-a-traditional-mammogram-and-a-3d-mammogram/ 
• https://www.healthimages.com/10-tips-to-minimize-pain-during-mammograms/ 
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8989268/ 
• https://www.koninghealth.com/product-solutions/koning-vera-breast-ct 
• https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/koning-announces-first-new-york-metropolitan-area-installation-of-revolutionary-koning-vera-breast-ct-at-community-radiology-ny-302120066.html 
• https://www.newswise.com/articles/koning-health-s-revolutionary-vera-breast-ct-impresses-at-arab-health-in-dubai2 
• https://earlydetectionimaging.com/ 
• https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/breast-cancer/frequently-asked-questions-mammograms