As the end of the year approaches, mammography departments begin to feel the full momentum of the annual rush. Patients are trying to fit in their screening before insurance benefits are reset, schedules are packed, and imaging teams work hard to keep each day running smoothly. It is one of the busiest times of the year for breast imaging centers, and it highlights just how essential thoughtful workflow and consistent positioning are when volumes surge.
Balancing Speed With Strong Positioning
Even when schedules are tight, there is no substitute for thorough positioning. Patients may arrive rushed from work, stressed from holiday plans, or anxious about the exam itself. Technologists understand that taking the time to ensure optimal positioning of the breast is the foundation of a high-quality mammogram.
This is one reason many departments rely on Bella Blankets® protective coverlets for mammography, especially during their busiest weeks of the year. The textured surface of Bella Blankets® creates a secure barrier between the patient’s skin and the detector, reducing the likelihood of the breast slipping during compression. This added stability helps technologists capture more breast tissue closer to the chest wall with fewer repositions, fewer retakes, and greater consistency from patient to patient.
Consistency That Supports Confident Reading
The year-end surge is felt just as strongly in the reading room. With more studies to interpret, radiologists depend on clear, consistent communication from technologists.
This is where TomoSPOT® skin markers make a significant impact. Post-surgical scarring, raised moles, areas of focal pain, palpable findings, and even inverted nipples can all influence interpretation. When these areas are not clearly marked and identified, radiologists may need to spend additional time correlating patient history, checking prior reports, or even requesting repeat imaging.
TomoSPOT® skin markers help provide instant clarity making it easy for radiologists to identify on the mammographic image exactly what the technologist documented on the skin. The consistency of a standardized marking system reduces questions, supports shorter reading times, and helps prevent unnecessary callbacks that can add strain to already full schedules.
The circle represents a raised mole, the triangle a palpable mass, the line the site of a prior surgery, the dot indicates nipple location, and the square for any other non-palpable area of concern round out the five-shape communication system and help ensure that small or subtle clinical findings are not overlooked during a high-volume reading day.
Staying Efficient Without Sacrificing Care
A heavy schedule demands efficiency, but imaging teams know that efficiency works best when built on consistency, communication, and tools that support quality. Departments that incorporate small workflow enhancements such as Bella Blankets® protective coverlets and TomoSPOT® skin markers often see:
- Fewer retakes
- More predictable appointment lengths
- Improved clarity during interpretation
- Fewer callbacks
- Higher patient satisfaction
- Reduced strain on technologists during peak weeks
The year-end rush is a powerful reminder of how essential the mammography team is to patient care. Their skill, precision, and commitment help ensure every patient receives accurate, compassionate imaging, even during the busiest time of the year.
To learn more about Bella Blankets® protective coverlets for mammography and TomoSPOT® skin markers for digital breast tomosynthesis, contact your Medical Imaging Account Manager at 1.800.233.5539 or email info@beekley.com.
Megan Sargalski
Marketing Communications Specialist
