Mammograms are an important annual screening for women age 40 and over. But many women delay or forgo this simple screening for a range of reasons including lack of time and fear of diagnosis, though the most often cited reason is concern that it will be painful.
With the introduction of the SmartCurve Breast Stabilization System, technologists at Sarasota Memorial hope to make this screening more comfortable.
What is SmartCurve?
Women have often been advised to simply mitigate the discomfort of a mammogram by taking aspirin or ibuprofen in advance or are told to wear a padded sports bra until the soreness goes away following the screening. SmartCurve offers a different way to avoid the pain – by actually addressing the process.
Designed to increase comfort without sacrificing image quality or accuracy, SmartCurve replaces the standard flat paddles used to compress breast tissue with innovative paddles that have a curved surface allowing for the natural curve of the body, instead of working against it.
This one design change makes a world of difference, with compression being spread more evenly across the breast, resulting in a quicker mammogram with less pain and pinching than a traditional mammogram. The accompanying processing software accounts for the curved paddle so there is no loss in accuracy.
Because the SmartCurve system can be adjusted and adapted to different breast sizes, most women will be able to use SmartCurve, where available. However, there are cases, such as after breast augmentation, where a traditional paddle must be used. Your technologist will discuss your specific situation with you.
Locations
Sarasota Memorial Health Care System is equipped with SmartCurve technology at three of our eight breast screening locations:
- Sarasota Memorial Hospital – Venice
2600 Laurel Road E. North Venice, FL 34275 941-261-9000 - Sarasota Memorial Health Care Center at North Port
2345 Bobcat Village Center Rd. North Port, FL 34288 941-257-2800 - Sarasota Memorial Health Care Center at Heritage Harbour
1040 River Heritage Blvd. Bradenton, FL 34212 941-917-6440
3D mammography is available at all eight locations.
To make an appointment for your mammogram, call 941-917-7322
For more information on breast health services at Sarasota Memorial click here.
