Wayne UNC Health Care has introduced a curved compression system for patients receiving mammograms, offering enhanced comfort and accuracy.

The Hologic SmartCurve™ system has a curved surface that mirrors the shape of a woman’s breasts to reduce pinching and allow better distribution of force over the entire breast during a mammogram. It can be used by the vast majority of women, except those with very small or large breasts, or with certain types of implants.

“With this new technology, we are not only able to provide a more comfortable mammogram, but can do so while maintaining clinical accuracy, which is key,” said Robin Benson, Wayne UNC Senior Mammography Technologist. “Mammograms play such a critical role in the early detection of breast cancer and we’re hopeful that with the addition of the SmartCurve system, we’ll be able to lessen the pain and anxiety associated with mammograms and, as a result, increase screening compliance.”

In a recent clinical study comparing the SmartCurve breast stabilization system to traditional flat paddle compression, the SmartCurve system improved comfort in 93 percent of women who reported moderate to severe discomfort with standard compression. Also, 95 percent of patients surveyed said they would recommend facilities that use the system to their friends.

“This system is part of our commitment to offering the women of our community the best breast care possible,” said Charlotte Watson, Wayne UNC Director of Imaging.

For more information about Wayne UNC Health Care and its breast health services, or to schedule a mammogramvisit wayneunc.org/breasthealth.