UnityPoint Health introduces new mammography machine

GRINNELL — UnityPoint Health — Grinnell Regional Medical Center recently installed a Fuji Aspire Cristalle Mammography Machine.

This cutting-edge technology provides a more comfortable, accurate and efficient breast cancer screening experience without the need to travel for care.

“We are deeply committed to providing exceptional care close to home,” says David-Paul Cavazos, UnityPoint Health-Grinnell president.

“As a regional hospital, it’s crucial that we continually invest in the latest technologies and training so our patients don’t have to sacrifice quality for convenience. This new mammography machine is one more example of how we’re advancing care and strengthening our services to meet the needs of our communities.”

The Fuji Aspire Cristalle machine offers several significant upgrades over the previous model, providing advanced features that enhance patient comfort and improve diagnostic accuracy. The machine includes comfort paddles, which distribute compression more evenly, reducing discomfort during screenings. In addition, the machine shortens the time spent in compression and lowers radiation exposure, ensuring a safer and more pleasant experience for patients.

"We are excited to offer our patients access to this state-of-the-art equipment," says Matt Byrd, radiology manager in Grinnell. “The Fuji Aspire Cristalle's 2D, 3D and Tomosynthesis capabilities will make a substantial difference in the accuracy of screenings, particularly in early detection of breast cancer, and the added comfort features will help alleviate patient stress."

Incorporating intelligent automatic exposure control technology, the new machine calculates the optimal radiation dose for each patient based on breast thickness, further ensuring the lowest possible radiation exposure while maintaining high-quality images for precise diagnostics.

The integration of artificial intelligence also supports enhanced accuracy in detecting abnormalities at earlier stages.

The new mammography machine replaces the previous system and represents an investment of $340,000, fully funded through GRMC’s budget. It is expected to serve over 2,000 patients annually while improving the hospital's screening capacity and helping to reduce appointment backlogs.

Grinnell mammography technologists have received specialized training from Fuji application specialists to ensure the highest level of care. Mammography services are available to all patients except those with breast implants which would be referred to UnityPoint Health-Des Moines.

To schedule a mammogram, call the UnityPoint Health Central Scheduling at 515-241-6111 or visit uph.link/Grinnell to learn more about GRMC’s services.

Photo (R to L):