The Comfort of Knowing...Sooner

With the addition of a second digital mammography machine and a same-day approach for diagnostic exams, women will have access to mammograms sooner, know the results sooner, and the process will be quicker and more comfortable.

Diane Coady, Breast Center Supervisor, said advances in technology have paved the way for many positive changes in mammography, especially in comfort. The newest machine will continue that trend. “It provides a ‘softer’ mammogram,” said Coady. She explained that the speed of the machine requires less compression time for the breast. “Digital machines take less than half the time of film machines we replaced back in 2006, and the new one is even faster.” The ergonomic design of the machine also increases comfort. “It has smooth corners and indentations on the side to provide more comfortable places for patients to rest their arms,” explained Coady.

Another reason the mammograms are softer at Willamette Valley Medical Center is because they’ve adopted the use of mammogram pads. Invented by a woman, the MammoPad cushions the breast without  interfering with the image quality. Three out of four women experience an average 50 percent decrease in discomfort with MammoPad, according to the company’s clinical studies. “The soft padding makes the machine warmer, and that in itself helps make it more comfortable,” added Coady.

“It’s the most advanced mammography machine currently available,” said Dr. David Siepmann, radiologist. “It’s faster than anything else and will improve scheduling and comfort.” But according to Dr. Siepmann, the advantages don’t stop there. The new machine is designed to be able to utilize new technology that is so cutting edge, it hasn’t even been approved by the Federal Drug Administration yet. “When it’s approved, we’ll be ready,” he said.

In addition to the new machine, Willamette Valley Medical Center’s new same-day results offers a comprehensive approach for women who may be experiencing new symptoms, like a lump or discharge. “With their diagnostic mammograms, we also offer same-day results, consultations with a radiologist and surgeon and a follow-up ultrasound if needed – all on the same day she is here for her mammogram,” explained Coady. With this comprehensive one-day approach and the new machine, women will have the comfort of knowing … sooner.