Mammography has long been one of the most effective tools for early breast cancer detection, yet challenges in imaging quality persist. Radiologists and mammographers constantly strive for improved positioning techniques, better tissue acquisition, and enhanced patient comfort to ensure the most accurate and comprehensive images possible.
One of the biggest challenges in mammography is ensuring proper breast positioning to maximize tissue acquisition. Research shows that poor positioning accounts for 92% of accreditation failures from the American College of Radiology (ACR). This is significant because suboptimal images can result in missed diagnoses and repeated scans, increasing patient anxiousness and radiation exposure.
How a Simple Protective Coverlet Can Help Improve Breast Imaging
Bella Blankets® protective coverlets for mammography were designed to address these issues of positioning, tissue acquisition, and enhancing the patient experience:
- Improved Tissue Acquisition: The soft,fabric-like texture of Bella Blankets gently grips the breast in place during positioning and under compression. This helps reduce patient movement and ensures that more breast tissue is included in the image, particularly at the chest wall. A study across 14 facilities found that images taken with Bella Blankets showed an average tissue acquisition increase of 0.61 cm per image, with 54.8% of images demonstrating increased breast tissue visibility.
- Enhanced Patient Comfort: One of the key deterrents to a successful mammogram is patient discomfort. Bella Blankets provide a non-slip surface that helps reduce the cold sensation of direct contact with the imaging plate, improving patient cooperation and reducing unnecessary movement.
- Alignment with EQUIP Standards: The FDA’s Enhancing Quality Using the Inspection Program (EQUIP) emphasizes continuous quality improvement in mammography imaging. Bella Blankets support these standards by helping mammographers achieve consistent, high-quality images, reducing the likelihood of positioning-related deficiencies.
A Difference Your Radiologist Will Notice
Radiologists and breast imaging staff members who have implemented Bella Blankets in their mammography practice have shared that they have seen significant improvements in positioning and tissue acquisition.
One imaging manager at a leading breast center told us that her radiologists were so impressed during their trial evaluation that using Bella Blankets allowed them to see more chest wall tissue in the CC views and also saw improved visualization in the MLO views, that they now use them for all their patients.
Another imaging manager told us that Bella Blankets helped them with positioning, resulting in fewer callbacks for repeat imaging and a more efficient workflow for her team.
A Small Change with a Big Impact
Bella Blankets protective coverlets for mammography are a simple addition to the mammography process, but their impact is undeniable.
By improving tissue acquisition, enhancing patient comfort, and supporting positioning standards, Bella Blankets help mammographers achieve clearer, more reliable images. It's a proven, low-cost and easy-to-implement solution for breast imaging facilities looking to elevate the quality of their mammograms
If you would like to learn more how Bella Blankets protective coverlets for mammography can help you enhance your imaging outcomes and MQSA compliance at your facility, contact your Medical Imaging Account Manager today at 1.800.233.5539 or info@beekley.com to request samples or to schedule a trial evaluation of Bella Blankets today.
Colleen O'Flaherty
Product Manager - Mammography and Breast Biopsy
