NEW advanced technology will help with the early diagnosis of breast cancer at Carlisle’s Cumberland Infirmary.

The hospital is one of just a small number across the country to have 3D imaging equipment installed to improve the assessment of breast lesions.

The introduction of the equipment will allow for earlier feedback of results which is seen as a major step forward for the infirmary with patients travelling from as far afield as the North East to undergo 3D biopsy procedures

North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs the infirmary and the West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven, bought the machinery to deliver advanced imaging techniques.

The advantages these will provide over the traditional 2D biopsiesinclude:

- Easy and fast targeting of lesions in the breast that are not always detected in 2D imaging

- Improved cancer outcomes for patients through a more advanced imaging technology for the biopsy procedure

- Shorter patient procedure time for patients

The breast radiology service delivers mammography and a range of biopsy procedures and continues to see an increasing number of patients.

Richard Sterry, operational services manager for radiology, said: “This is a very positive step to improve the early diagnosis of breast cancer for patients.

“The 3D biopsy imaging is a much more effective option for patients and this investment in technology is enabling clinicians to deliver more accurate targeting during biopsies.

“We’re delighted to be able to deliver this enhanced level of diagnostic imaging to patients across North Cumbria.”