At RSNA 2025, Siemens Healthineers introduces important new capabilities for MAMMOMAT B.brilliant mammography systems, advancing contrast-enhanced mammography and biopsy functionality. In addition to generating high-resolution 3D breast images via wide-angle tomosynthesis in only five seconds1, MAMMOMAT B.brilliant will now be equipped2 with a newly developed image-reconstruction technique for contrast-enhanced examinations. This delivers clarity and consistency, reducing the need to switch imaging modalities and enabling faster diagnosis. Designed for cost-effectiveness and high availability, this on-site solution helps radiology practices maximise their long-term potential.
Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) is a highly sensitive imaging technique that is clinically indicated, for example, to clarify inconclusive findings, or to assess disease extent preoperatively. By leveraging differences in contrast uptake between healthy and malignant tissue, as well as the distinct X-ray absorption properties of iodine versus breast tissue, CEM supports radiologists in identifying and characterising suspicious findings with greater confidence.
“Our goal was to empower clinicians with a solution that strengthens diagnostic confidence and broadens access to advanced imaging within the mammography workflow,” states Joanne Barry, head of X-ray Products at Siemens Healthineers Great Britain and Ireland. With mammography being the most accessible breast imaging method, expanding the capabilities of existing systems is key to improving access to advanced diagnostics. “Given the anxiety associated with the clarification of potential findings detected in breast cancer screening, accelerating time-to-diagnosis is essential. It reflects our commitment to innovation in women’s healthcare and to delivering personalised care.”
The newly developed ClearCEM image-reconstruction technique for MAMMOMAT B.brilliant2 provides crystal-clear enhancement and consistent image quality that supports lesion detection. Powered by advanced algorithms, it generates a more uniform background that supports differentiation of suspicious areas. This supports clinical decision making and may enable faster treatment initiation, while reducing the need for additional imaging or unnecessary biopsies.
If a biopsy is required following a contrast-enhanced finding, the procedure is typically performed using contrast as well, ensuring continuity in diagnostic precision. ClearCEM provides a contrast localiser image for tomosynthesis-guided biopsy, which – thanks to high depth resolution – enables targeting accuracy within ±1 mm, potentially reducing time-to-diagnosis. The combination of ClearCEM-powered scout imaging and tomosynthesis-based targeting within the same compression is designed to strengthen confidence and eases the biopsy procedure. The streamlined process can add to increased system availability – a key advantage in high-volume clinical settings.
Dr. Dianne Georgian-Smith, MD, Envision Healthcare, Nashville, Tennessee, USA, explains on the new imaging technique in clinical testing: “The image quality with ClearCEM is exceptional – even in dense breast tissue. ClearCEM provides a remarkably uniform background, which significantly improves the visibility of enhancing lesions.”3
