The cancer screening technique takes less than ten seconds to scan each breast, without needing to compress its tissue.
Breast Health Imaging claims it has brought cone-beam breast computer tomography (CBBCT) to Australia for the first time.
CBBCT is an FDA-approved breast cancer screening technique that does not involve compressing the breast tissue.
The patient is administered contrast dye, then lies down on the machine. One breast at a time is placed into the hole in the table and the scanner circles each breast for just seven seconds. The resulting images are then reviewed by a radiologist prior to the patient attending a bilateral ultrasound, where the sonographer has detailed guidance from the CBBCT to create a significantly more accurate guided scan.
The lack of pain involved is expected to encourage those who may have previously avoided breast screening via mammograms to get tested.
“For too long, women have had to choose between their comfort and their health when it comes to breast screening,” said Dr Jacqueline Milne, radiologist and co-founder of Breast Health Imaging.
“By bringing CBBCT to Australia, we’re not just introducing new technology, we’re fundamentally changing how women approach their breast health.
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“This technology represents the future of diagnostic imaging, and we’re proud to be the first to make it accessible to Australian women.”
Dr Ben Green, a specialist breast and endocrine surgeon, said:
“ConeBeam CT represents a major advancement in breast cancer care, delivering high-resolution 3D imaging that significantly improves diagnostic accuracy and enhances surgical planning with greater precision.
“For surgeons, this means more effective, tailored procedures with reduced risk of residual disease and cosmetic defects.
“Importantly, ConeBeam CT allows for high-quality imaging without breast compression—a common barrier for many women undergoing conventional mammography.
“By offering a more comfortable experience, it opens the door to improved screening uptake and earlier detection, which remain the cornerstones of successful breast cancer treatment and long-term outcomes.”
