Nov 21, 2018

Enabling personalized compression for better quality mammograms without unnecessary discomfort for patients, Sigmascreening announced that more than 100,000 women received optimum mammographic compression with the Sensitive Sigma™ Paddle. Sigmascreening will showcase the technology at the upcoming 104th Annual Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) meeting, November 25-30, 2018. (South Hall #4129). Sigmascreening also announced that a study accepted for presentation at RSNA demonstrates the impact of a real-time pressure indicator during mammographic exam acquisition . The study, “Mammographic Compression Variability Increased after Removing Real-Time Pressure Indicator,” (SSE23-05; Monday 3:00-4:00 PM), will be presented by Monique van Lier, Clinical Application Scientist, during the Physics Breast X-Ray Imaging Session. The Sensitive Sigma Paddle attempts to standardize the compression procedure by introducing pressure-based compression using a paddle equipped with a real-time pressure indicator. In the study, researchers evaluated the impact on compression practice when replacing the pressure-based paddle with a conventional paddle without pressure indication in a group experienced technologists. Results showed that after removal of the pressure indicator the average compression pressure and variance significantly increased, leading to more unfavorable over- and under-compression. The proportion of compressions in the pressure range 5-15 kPa decreased from 87.4% to 77.9%. The proportion of high pressures (>15kPa) nearly doubled (11.0% to 18.8%) and low pressures (<5kPa) more than doubled (1.6% to 3.3%). The results suggest that when removing the pressure indicator, compression variability increased rapidly, indicating that an indicator is needed to maintain compression reproducibility. To get the best image quality during a mammogram with the least amount of radiation, the breast needs to be flattened or compressed with a reasonable and repeatable amount of pressure. However, lack of standardization can lead to variability in compression. Under-compression can lead to blurred images, more retakes and a higher average glandular dose (AGD), while over-compression causes discomfort and unnecessary pain for the patient Based on breast-size and tissue-stiffness, the Sensitive Sigma Paddle calculates the pressure to achieve an optimal compression range and allows for a highly reproducible procedure. A real-time pressure indicator provides women more control over the compression of their breasts and enhances interaction between the technologist and the patient about the progress of the compression procedure. This makes communication easier because of the fact that the patient is more involved, making the examination less stressful, with overall better image quality, lower radiation dose and a faster workflow. “We are pleased that research continues to demonstrate that pressure-based compression driven by real-time indicators, deliver optimum mammographic compression for better exam quality and patient experience,” said Ivo Aarninkhof, CEO, Sigmascreening. “Since the Sensitive Sigma Paddle entered clinical practice, more than 100,000 women have received the benefits – a number that increases by more than 5,000 every month.” About Sigmascreening Sigmascreening is a medical device company focusing on the development of new innovative products in the area of digital mammography and breast cancer screening. The Sensitive Sigma™ Paddle is our CE-certified product, based on our patented technology preventing over- and under-compression. We aim to introduce new products that will improve mammography and contribute to the early detection of cancer which ultimately can save lives. Media Contact: