Koning’s Comfortable and Accurate Imaging Technology Advances Breast Health, Championing Women’s Well-Being

One of the most prevalent health concerns affecting millions of women worldwide is breast cancer. Statistics reveal that approximately 1 in 8 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. A concerning trend persists despite the pervasiveness of this disease. In 2022, about 1 in 4 women between 50 and 74 had not received a mammogram within the past two years.

According to the MQSA National Statistics, the total annual mammography procedures reported as of May 2024 are nearly 41.5 million. This number may seem noteworthy, but it’s far from the ideal figure necessary to detect and treat breast cancer effectively. Delayed diagnosis presents grave consequences. Breast cancer detected at stage 4 has a survival rate of only 22%. On the other hand, when detected at stage 0 or 1, the survival rate is 99%. These statistics illustrate the importance of routine exams and early intervention.

Unfortunately, many women are reluctant to undergo mammograms because of their fear of discomfort or pain often associated with the procedure. Another issue to consider is that even with regular breast exams, conventional breast cancer detection methods can miss a significant percentage of breast cancer cases. In fact, 35% of breast cancers are undetected by traditional mammograms. This number soars to 70% among women with dense breasts.

The problem is that despite these disadvantages, the medical community has shown slow progress in adopting alternative imaging technologies. The hesitance might stem from healthcare professionals’ reluctance to embrace new methodologies, given that they’ve become accustomed to a specific way of conducting breast exams. However, recent developments suggest that the industry is slowly shifting its mindset.

For instance, the Society of Breast Imaging has succeeded in facilitating dialogue surrounding alternative and improved imaging modalities (most notably, Contrast-Enhanced Mammography or CEM), as seen at their most recent Breast Imaging Symposium in Montreal. At the symposium, experts and researchers explored new technologies and methodologies and discovered alternative ways to improve patient outcomes. These discussions are a major step toward driving widespread adoption and acceptance of innovative technology.

Koning Health contributes to advancing breast cancer outcomes by revolutionizing the medical imaging industry, particularly breast imaging. The global health technology company has over two decades of experience developing cone-beam computed tomography (CT) technology. Holding over 120 patents globally, it has earned recognition for its innovative approach and has won prestigious awards such as the 2016 Frost and Sullivan New Innovation Award in Breast Imaging.

Koning aims to optimize early disease detection, diagnosis, intervention, and treatment. Its groundbreaking technology, the Koning Vera Breast CT (KBCT), is poised to redefine breast imaging, as it captures a 360-degree view of the breast and produces high-contrast real isotropic 3D images in only ten seconds per breast.

The device can even be configured to include 3D-guided biopsy and contrast-enhanced breast CT to enhance its diagnostic capabilities. In addition, the radiation dose of this device is comparable to a standard mammogram. At the same time, it doesn’t affect critical organs such as the liver and colon, making it a safer option for patients.

The KBCT is a game-changer in the field because, unlike typical mammograms, it eliminates tissue overlap and allows for precise localization of lesions in three planes. This means all women, including those with dense breasts, implants, a family history of breast cancer, or those who are noncompliant with traditional mammograms, can benefit from this advanced imaging technology.

With this exam, patients are no longer subjected to uncomfortable and painful compression. Moreover, it offers a touch-free, more dignified approach to breast cancer diagnoses. The KBCT is also highly versatile. It can accommodate women of all sizes and offer a more accessible option for patients with anxiety or claustrophobia who may struggle with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. This encourages greater uptake of the technology.

The KBCT is available in select locations across the United States, with plans for further domestic and international expansion. This move aligns with its mission to take a bold step forward in breast cancer detection and diagnosis and offer improved outcomes for patients worldwide.

Patients who have experienced Koning’s Breast CT firsthand commend it for providing a comfortable experience compared to traditional mammograms. “There was no compression involved with the KBCT. Quick, painless—it’s what we all would like, ” one patient remarks.

Another patient who has a family history of breast cancer shares how she started her mammograms 16 years ago and always had to undergo an ultrasound afterward because the radiologist wanted further testing due to dense breast tissue. When she started getting “3D” mammograms, she received a letter after every exam showing her images to be normal, however, she understood additional imaging was likely necessary due to dense breast tissue and her family history.

Reflecting on her experience, she recounts, “These letters worried me, especially given my family history. A friend told me about breast CT scans in 2022. What a relief to hear about a scan that doesn’t squeeze or pinch the breast. Also, you lay on your stomach, and the machine can see it all. In early 2023, I had my first breast CT scan, which was quick and painless. Unlike the letters I received after every “3D” mammogram, the breast CT scan gave clear answers immediately. I can now say that I’ll no longer have a “3D” mammogram but will go for a KBCT exam.”

These testimonials from patients showcase how Koning’s breast CT technology is making a positive impact on the way breast health is managed and monitored. The innovative company intends to make the KBCT the standard of care for breast imaging, with the vision of being accessible in every facility across the United States and beyond.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider.