Real-time mammography-guided biopsy machine improves breast services at Spire Little Aston

Spire Little Aston Hospital in Birmingham has introduced a Hologic mammography machine, said to be the only one of its kind in Spire Healthcare hospitals across the UK.

The Brevera breast biopsy unit streamlines the process, reducing time under compression. It integrates vacuum-assisted sampling and instant specimen imaging within the same device, allowing the user to confirm accuracy during the procedure. If the sample is sufficient, further extraction becomes unnecessary. By enabling immediate confirmation, the system reduces the number of required biopsies, reducing discomfort and procedure time. Tissue integrity is also preserved, due to fewer handling steps. Throughput can also be increased, allowing more patients to be diagnosed faster and cutting waiting times.

Mammographer Kerry Crabtree said: “We are thrilled to be able to offer this service to patients in the West Midlands. Spire’s investment and restructuring of our existing department has allowed us to future-proof the breast services we provide at Spire Little Aston.”

Picture: consultant radiologist Dr Amar Shimal with mammographers Lesley Price and Kerry Crabtree.

Read this report on page 5 of the September 2025 issue of RAD Magazine.