Routine mammograms save lives. But scheduling your first one can be intimidating.

“Many of us fear the worst when going for a test we have never had before,” says Deanne Rose, Kettering Health Breast Centers director. 

You may have heard your mom or grandmother talk about painful mammograms, and now you’re worried yours will hurt, too. But Deanne explains that with the help of new technology, mammograms are more comfortable—and better at detecting cancer—than ever. 

New and improved screenings 

All mammogram machines at Kettering Health are equipped with technology that makes them more comfortable and effective with the images they take. 

Dueta 

Dueta is a device that allows patients to control the compression during a mammogram. 

With Dueta, the mammography technologist positions the patient and begins compression. Once compression reaches the “minimal allowable amount,” the patient continues the compression with a remote, keeping it from becoming painful while still compressing enough to capture a clear image. 

“Adequate compression is key to good images and diagnosis,” Deanne says. “It is proven that patients have allowed better compression when they control it themselves, lending to a more comfortable mammogram.” 

Volpara 

Volpara uses AI-powered technology to ensure mammogram technologists include 100% of the breast tissue and use ideal compression and positioning. It is especially helpful for patients with dense breast tissue, which can make it challenging to capture a clear image. 

This means technologists can capture high-quality images with every mammogram. 

“Better quality translates to a better mammogram, less repeat imaging, and a more comfortable exam,” says Deanne. 

iCad Profound AI

iCad Profound, Deanne explains, is an AI-powered software that acts as a radiologist’s aid in detecting breast cancer. The software marks areas of potential concern on mammography images for radiologists to take a closer look. 

“The patient is essentially getting both a computer AI-based review,” Deanne says, “and the review that only a highly trained radiologist can perform.”  

A system of support 

Mammograms have improved vastly in recent years, but it can still be nerve-wracking to go in for your first screening. Deanne assures that the team will do all they can to make it the most comfortable experience possible. 

“Our team of highly skilled mammographers will guide each patient through the process.”