Using the lowest levels of radiation, the GE Pristina Mammography Machine is able to generate detailed, high-quality images, to look for breast cancer, changes and benign breast disease making breast imaging safer, quicker and more comfortable. Advanced imaging also means reliable results and reduces the chance of patients needing repeat scans.
If our clinicians need to examine a specific area more closely, they can use the same machine to perform imaged guided biopsies by inserting a needle into the breast to take a small tissue sample to check for cancer. The benefits for the patient are that they don’t need to move to another room or machine, making the process quicker, less stressful, and more efficient.
Meanwhile, CESM provides an enhanced type of mammogram using a small amount of dye injected into a vein. As the dye travels through the bloodstream it highlights areas that may be difficult to see using traditional mammograms or ultrasounds. This helps our clinicians make more informed decisions and can reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies. CESM can also be used if an MRI is unsuitable, for example, if patients are claustrophobic or have implants that aren’t safe for MRI scans, such as some cochlear implants.
Alongside these technological improvements, the Breast Care Unit has undergone an extensive refurbishment to create a more modern, spacious, environment to improve the patient experience. Works include:
- A third ultrasound room and a fourth mammography room, increasing capacity and helping to reduce waiting times.
- Upgraded patient changing areas to improve comfort and privacy.
- Improved toilet facilities, now fully accessible and including baby‑changing provision.
- A dedicated recovery area with comfortable seating, television, and privacy options for patients following biopsies or contrast‑enhanced procedures.
- Redesigned reception and outpatient areas, now more open and accessible to improve flow and better support wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges.
- A new nurse call system installed throughout the unit, enhancing safety and communication.
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