A high-volume mammography screening center

Designed for unsurpassed throughput

The high throughput on the level experienced at Södersjukhuset’s breast center is supported by Sectra’s mammography solution, comprising   Sectra Breast Imaging PACS and Sectra mammography RIS. The solution supports every step of the mammography process – from initial patient contact to documented diagnosis.

Screening and symptomatic mammography are performed in the same place at the center. Radiologists, radiographers, pathologists, surgeons and oncologists work in multi-disciplinary teams around the patient – a way of working that shortens the processing flow, thus providing benefits for the patient.

“The workflow is highly dependent upon the RIS/PACS  solution,” says Ann, “but also on the supplier. We are not IT people. The supplier needs to understand, above all, how we work and then how we use the systems. All praise to Sectra for coming out here to see how we work. Their solution supports our work methods extremely well.”

No unnecessary mouse clicks

Five radiologists work on reading images at the breast center. All images, regardless of modality, are read in Sectra Breast Imaging PACS. The pace is high and the ease-of-use of the system is essential. Every second saved on repetitive activities can generate major savings for the operation.

“The reading environment needs to support the high volumes,” says Ann Sundbom.  “It mustn’t involve unnecessary mouse clicks and never create frustration.  That’s exactly what Sectra Breast Imaging PACS offers.”

Close partnership

“We examine around 230 women a day in our screening operation and if any part of the system were to collapse, it would be a disaster for us,” Ann says as she points out how important it is when buying a system to receive good backup and service from the supplier after delivery. “The supplier must never just ‘dump’ the system. The key to a good relationship with a supplier is being able to find the right person if something goes wrong. You want to be treated seriously, and receive rapid feedback on the status of your inquiry.”