State-of-the-art mammography equipment brings clearer images, gentler exams

Carl Van Tasell, MD

The mammogram your mom remembers isn’t the one you’ll have today. New technology means clearer results and a gentler exam.

Recently upgraded technology has improved the mammography experience. NKC Health Imaging upgraded all women’s health imaging machines with Selenia® 3Dimensions™ high-resolution mammography systems. The four new machines were installed at both Gashland and building 2790 on the hospital campus.

“Every new generation of mammography equipment is engineered to be easier on patients,” said Carl Van Tasell, MD, with Northland Radiology. “Softer edges and improved materials reduce skin pulling, and advances in power mean we don’t need as much compression to get high-quality images. Patients benefit from both greater comfort and better results.”

The upgraded technology gives radiologists clearer images that improve visibility through dense breast tissue. This allows them to detect smaller lesions and reduce unnecessary callbacks for additional imaging. 

“I think about what it feels like for a patient to get that letter or phone call, and how many sleepless nights they may face before finding answers,” Dr. Van Tasell said. “Thankfully, the new machines deliver clearer, more detailed images, which helps us detect cancers earlier and distinguish them from noncancerous findings, often sparing patients from unnecessary biopsies or extra testing.”

Experience brings comfort, too. Exams are scheduled every 30 minutes, so technologists rely on a high testing volume and decades of experience to be proficient and make the process easier. Supervisor of Radiology Operations Mindy Coates, RT(R)(M)(QM), RDMS, RVT, said several of her team members have worked in mammography for more than 30 years, refining the small touches that help patients feel at ease.

“Many women come with friends or family to keep each other accountable,” Mindy said. “As moms, grandmas, daughters and wives, life gets busy, and this accountability helps them remember to schedule their yearly mammograms.”

Mammography remains the gold standard for breast cancer screening. Advancements in technology and treatment mean cancers are caught earlier than ever and more women are surviving and living full lives.

“We’ve always had great equipment,” Dr. Van Tasell said. “Now it’s even better, and patients are experiencing the benefits every day.”