Application Spotlight: Better Screening Technology for Breast Cancer

Automatic compression gauging in mammography machines improves accuracy and reduces patient discomfort

Breast cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in the world today, impacting millions of women every year and representing 25% of all cancers in women. There are many effective treatments available for breast cancer, and the long-term prognosis can be excellent if the cancer is caught in the early stages, before it has spread to other parts of the body.

In fact, the overall 5-year relative survival rate in breast cancer is 99% for localized disease and 85% for regional disease. However, if the cancer has spread, the survival rate drops to 27%. The only way to reduce or even prevent breast cancer deaths is by screening more women and catching the cancer earlier.

The challenge

Mammography is the primary tool physicians use to detect breast cancer, especially in early stages of the disease. During screenings, patients typically stand in front of a mammography machine, and a specialist positions the patient’s breast between the X-ray plate and the base plate.

Accurate compression of the patient’s breast is required to achieve a clear scan. Too little compression can cause a poor X-ray reading, potentially requiring another scan and additional X-ray exposure. On the other hand, too much compression results in a painful patient experience. A painful mammography session may cause women to avoid mammography in the future and reduce the chance of detecting cancer in early stages.

The solution: Force sensor integrated in mammography machine

VPG Transducers solved the problem by mounting a force sensor with the required precision at the top of the X-ray plate. This enables the machine to compress automatically and stop at the right pressure level to ensure a thorough scan without causing the patient unnecessary discomfort.

Benefits

With its innovative force sensor technology, VPG Transducers is easing the tumor detection processes by ensuring no more than the necessary pressure on patients’ breast tissue. This facilitates the work of the technicians who operate mammography machines and helps in minimizing patient discomfort.

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Learn more about force sensor solutions for medical applications