Digital Mammography with Tomosynthesis
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A mammography system is a specialized low-dose X-ray imaging machine designed specifically to examine breast tissue for the early detection of cancer and other breast diseases. It is operated by trained radiographers in a dedicated suite, and the resulting images, called mammograms, are interpreted by radiologists. Its clinical impact is profound; early detection of breast cancer through mammography can increase the five-year survival rate to over 90%, making it one of the most critical diagnostic tools in women's health. For your facility, investing in a quality mammography system directly translates to improved patient outcomes and establishes your centre as a leader in preventative healthcare.
Entry-level 2D digital mammography systems in Nigeria range from NGN 45 million to NGN 80 million for new units, while advanced 3D systems with tomosynthesis can range from NGN 120 million to over NGN 250 million. High-quality refurbished units offer a lower entry point, typically costing 40-60% of the price of a new system. The final price you pay is driven by several factors beyond the base unit, including the detector technology (2D vs. 3D), brand reputation (e.g., Hologic, GE, Siemens), included accessories like biopsy attachments and diagnostic workstations, and the complexity of installation. Always factor in costs for training, warranty duration, foreign exchange rate fluctuations, and international freight, which can add 15-25% to the initial quote. When you request a quote, insist on a line-item breakdown covering the equipment, calibration, documentation, payment terms, and all associated service costs to avoid surprises.
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The cheapest, safe mammography systems are professionally refurbished 2D digital units, which start from NGN 25 million to NGN 45 million. These systems must have minimum safe specifications, including a functional detector with a documented remaining lifespan, proper automatic exposure control (AEC), and come from reputable brands like Hologic, GE, or Siemens to ensure parts availability. Be cautious of extremely low prices, as they often hide significant costs. The initial quote may exclude essential expenses like crating, international freight, customs clearance, local installation, and engineer calibration, which can add another NGN 5 million to NGN 10 million to the final cost. Furthermore, the cheapest options often come with a very limited warranty (e.g., 3-6 months on parts only), exposing your facility to high repair costs shortly after purchase.
For a reliable, cost-effective system without hidden risks, contact Franance to explore vetted refurbished options.
An affordable mammography system is a turnkey bundle that includes the core 2D digital unit, a dedicated radiologist diagnostic workstation, a 10kVA medical-grade UPS, full installation, application training for two radiographers, and a one-year comprehensive warranty, typically priced between NGN 55 million and NGN 90 million for a new system. This bundled approach is more affordable in the long run because it prevents unexpected capital outlays and operational downtime. Purchasing piecemeal might seem cheaper initially, but sourcing a compatible UPS, workstation, and qualified engineer separately can increase your 12-month costs by 15-20% and lead to integration headaches and delays in starting patient services. An affordable solution prioritizes uptime and predictable operational costs over the lowest possible initial price.
Contact Franance to configure an affordable, all-inclusive mammography package for your centre.
New 2D digital mammography systems in Nigeria typically range from NGN 45 million to NGN 80 million, whereas professionally refurbished equivalents cost between NGN 25 million and NGN 45 million, offering a 40-60% saving on the initial capital investment. The trade-off extends beyond price. A new system comes with the latest software, a full manufacturer's warranty (typically 1-2 years), and a longer operational lifecycle of 7-10 years. A refurbished unit has a shorter remaining lifecycle, a more limited warranty (usually 6-12 months), and may not support the newest software features. However, lead times for refurbished systems are often shorter (6-10 weeks) compared to new systems (12-20 weeks).
| Feature | New Mammography System | Refurbished Mammography System |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | NGN 45M - 250M+ | NGN 25M - 90M |
| Warranty | 12-24 months comprehensive | 6-12 months, often limited |
| Lifecycle | 7-10 years | 3-6 years remaining |
| Software | Latest version, upgradeable | Older version, may not be upgradeable |
| Lead Time | 12-20 weeks | 6-10 weeks |
| Uptime | Highest reliability | High, but with more potential for age-related faults |
Contact Franance to analyze the cost-benefit of new versus refurbished systems for your specific budget and patient volume.
Contact Franance for a detailed, itemised quote on new or refurbished mammography systems tailored to your facility's needs.
Reputable mammography system suppliers are primarily based in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, but you can identify them through three main channels: checking the official websites of OEMs like GE, Siemens, and Hologic for their listed local distributors; consulting with professional bodies like the Association of Radiographers of Nigeria (ARN); or using a vetted procurement platform like Franance. Before engaging any supplier, you must conduct due diligence. Verify their Certificate of Incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), demand a Letter of Authorization from the OEM for the specific product, and ask for at least three references from Nigerian hospitals where they have successfully installed and currently service mammography systems. Franance streamlines this by pre-vetting all vendors on its platform, checking their corporate, technical, and financial standing to ensure you only deal with qualified and reliable partners.
Contact Franance to connect with pre-verified mammography system suppliers in Nigeria.
Franance is a verified procurement partner and supplier that provides end-to-end services for acquiring mammography systems across Nigeria, covering major cities like Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt. We manage the entire lifecycle from needs assessment and sourcing to logistics, installation, and after-sales support, ensuring your project is completed on time and within budget. Our verification process ensures that every system, whether new or refurbished, is supplied and supported by OEM-certified engineers, mitigating the risks of dealing with unqualified vendors.
The best mammography systems are those that directly match your facility's clinical needs, patient throughput, and budget. For top-tier performance, 3D tomosynthesis systems like the Hologic 3Dimensions or Siemens Mammomat Revelation are the gold standard, offering the highest cancer detection rates, though they cost upwards of NGN 150 million. These are best suited for large teaching hospitals and specialized diagnostic centres. A mid-tier option for a busy private hospital would be an advanced 2D system or an entry-level 3D system like the GE Senographe Pristina, which provides excellent image quality and workflow efficiency. For smaller clinics or centres starting out, a robust and reliable 2D digital system like the GE Senographe Crystal Nova or a professionally refurbished Hologic Selenia offers the best balance of performance and value. The key is to invest in the technology that provides the best diagnostic outcome for your specific patient population.
Comparing mammography models requires an evaluation of their core imaging technology (2D vs. 3D), detector material (a-Si vs. a-Se), dose efficiency, and workflow features against your budget and patient throughput. A GE Senographe might be praised for its user-friendly interface and patient comfort features, while a Hologic Selenia Dimensions is renowned for its superior 3D tomosynthesis image quality and high cancer detection rates. Siemens Mammomat systems are often noted for their robust engineering and low radiation dose technologies. Your choice depends on whether your priority is high-volume screening, advanced diagnostics, or a balance of both.
| Tier | Best for | Key Specs | Lead-time | Maintenance | Power Needs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | Private Clinics, General Hospitals | 2D Digital, a-Si Detector, 24x29cm plate | 8-12 weeks | Standard annual PM | 10 kVA UPS |
| Mid | Diagnostic Centres, Private Hospitals | 2D/3D Combo, a-Se Detector, Low Dose | 12-16 weeks | Annual PM + QC | 15 kVA UPS |
| Advanced | Teaching Hospitals, Cancer Centres | Full 3D Tomo, Biopsy, Contrast | 16-20 weeks | Comprehensive SLA | 15-20 kVA UPS |
The best mammography brands with a proven track record, reliable local support, and good parts availability in Nigeria are Hologic, GE Healthcare, and Siemens Healthineers. Hologic is widely regarded as the market leader in 3D tomosynthesis technology with its Selenia and 3Dimensions series, offering exceptional image quality. GE Healthcare's Senographe series, like the Pristina and Crystal Nova, is known for its patient-centric design, reliability, and strong service network in Nigeria. Siemens Healthineers' Mammomat series, including the Revelation, is respected for its robust German engineering, low-dose technologies, and advanced diagnostic features. Choosing between them often comes down to the quality of the local distributor's support and your specific clinical priorities.
A price list for mammography systems in Nigeria is structured in ranges based on technology tiers: Entry-Level 2D Digital (NGN 45M - 80M), Mid-Range 3D/Tomosynthesis (NGN 90M - 150M), and Advanced 3D with Biopsy/Contrast Enhancement (NGN 160M - 250M+). When you receive a quote, understand that the final price within a range is determined by the specific configuration, included accessories (like workstations and biopsy kits), warranty length, and training package. For example, a base 2D system might be NGN 50 million, but adding a diagnostic workstation and a 2-year warranty could push the price to NGN 65 million. Always remember that these prices are highly sensitive to foreign exchange rates (USD/EUR to NGN), international freight costs, and customs duties, which can cause quotes to vary by 10-15% from one month to the next.
The five most decisive specifications for a mammography system are the detector technology, tomosynthesis capability, detector size, gantry ergonomics, and dose-reduction software. A direct-conversion amorphous Selenium (a-Se) detector provides sharper images than an indirect-conversion amorphous Silicon (a-Si) detector. 3D tomosynthesis is a critical spec that increases cancer detection rates by up to 40% compared to 2D alone. A standard detector size of 24x29 cm is necessary to accommodate most patients without requiring multiple exposures. Gantry ergonomics, including features for patient comfort, can improve image quality by reducing motion artifacts. Finally, modern dose-reduction software is essential for patient safety, ensuring you acquire high-quality images at the lowest possible radiation dose, in line with ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles.
A standard mammography system installation in Nigeria takes 5-10 working days on-site and costs between NGN 1.5 million and NGN 4 million, depending on the complexity of the system and the location of the facility. This is a turnkey process that begins long before the engineer arrives. It includes a site readiness assessment to ensure your room meets shielding, power, and cooling requirements. Once the system is delivered, the OEM-certified engineer performs the mechanical assembly, connects it to a stable power source (via a UPS), and installs the software. The most critical phase is calibration, where the engineer uses specialized phantoms to fine-tune the X-ray beam and detector response to meet precise manufacturer and regulatory standards. The process concludes with applications training for your radiographers and the handover of all technical and user documentation.
Let Franance manage your entire turnkey installation process, from site planning and readiness checks to final calibration and user training, ensuring a seamless and compliant setup.
Delivery and logistics for a new mammography system from the factory in Europe or the USA to your facility in Nigeria typically takes 8 to 14 weeks and can cost between 8% and 15% of the equipment's value. The process involves several critical stages: factory crating, international air or sea freight, Nigerian customs clearance (which requires a Form M and SONCAP certificate), and finally, secure, insured inland transportation to your hospital. Delays are common if documentation is incomplete or if the clearing agent is inexperienced with sensitive medical equipment. You must ensure the supplier has comprehensive Goods-in-Transit insurance that covers the full value of the system from the factory to your doorstep to mitigate the risk of damage during transit.
A standard warranty for a new mammography system in Nigeria is 12 months, covering all parts and labour, while refurbished units typically come with a 6-month warranty. After the warranty period, a comprehensive service contract will cost between 5% and 10% of the original equipment value annually. It is crucial to differentiate between an OEM-backed warranty and a vendor-only warranty; the former guarantees access to genuine parts and technical support from the manufacturer. Your Service Level Agreement (SLA) should clearly define key terms like a guaranteed uptime of 95% or higher, a maximum 48-hour response time for engineer call-outs, and the availability of remote diagnostic support to resolve software issues quickly. A solid spare parts strategy, with the vendor stocking critical components locally, is essential to minimize downtime.
Refurbished mammography systems are available in Nigeria with prices ranging from NGN 25 million to NGN 60 million, offering a significant cost saving over new equipment. The quality and price depend on the grade of refurbishment. A "cosmetic refurb" may only involve cleaning and painting, while a "full refurbishment" involves a complete system teardown, replacement of worn mechanical and electronic parts, and calibration to OEM specifications. The most critical component is the digital detector; you must get a report on its age, condition, and performance. Always demand an inspection report from a qualified engineer, and ensure the system comes with at least a 6-month comprehensive warranty covering the detector and X-ray tube.
To verify you are buying an original mammography system, you must validate the unit's serial number directly with the manufacturer's regional or international office. Do not rely solely on the documents provided by the seller. Red flags for fake or grey-market equipment include an unusually low price, missing or tampered serial number plates, and software that appears to be a cracked or non-licensed version. An original system will have authentic documentation, including a CE mark or FDA approval certificate that can be cross-checked. Insist on seeing the original shipping and customs documents, which trace the unit's path from the factory to Nigeria. Counterfeit systems pose a massive risk, producing non-diagnostic images and potentially delivering unsafe radiation doses.
Essential accessories for a functional mammography suite include a radiologist's diagnostic workstation with dual 5MP monitors (NGN 3M - 7M), a 10-15 kVA medical-grade online UPS (NGN 2M - 5M), and radiation protection gear like lead aprons and a lead glass viewing window. Consumables are minimal but important for quality control, such as approved cleaning wipes for the detector and compression paddles, and QC phantoms (e.g., ACR phantom) for routine image quality tests. It is most cost-effective to bundle these accessories with the main unit purchase. This ensures compatibility, leverages your purchasing power for a better overall price, and simplifies the installation process under a single vendor's responsibility.
A mammography system requires a dedicated, clean 220-240V, 50Hz single-phase power line, protected by a 30-40 Amp breaker. Due to the unreliable power grid in Nigeria, it is non-negotiable to connect the system to a 10-15 kVA pure sine wave online UPS. This UPS cleans the power and provides backup during outages, allowing you to complete an ongoing patient scan and shut down the system safely. The entire installation must also be connected to a proper earth ground with a resistance of less than 5 ohms to protect the equipment and ensure patient safety. Before installation, your supplier's engineer must conduct a site survey to confirm your power infrastructure can meet these stringent requirements.
To legally install and operate a mammography system in Nigeria, your facility must obtain a License to Import, Install, and Operate from the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA). This is the most critical compliance step. The equipment itself should also be compliant with Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) requirements, which is usually verified through a SONCAP certificate during importation. Furthermore, your facility must be registered with your state's Ministry of Health and the Nigerian Medical and Dental Council (NMDR) to offer radiology services. The compliance process requires a dossier of documents, including proof of a radiation-shielded room, certification of your radiographers, and a contract with a medical physicist for quality assurance.
Financing options for acquiring a mammography system in Nigeria include traditional bank loans, asset leasing arrangements, and specialized healthcare financing from partners like Franance. Bank loans typically require significant collateral and come with interest rates of 20-30%, with an approval timeline of 2-4 months. Leasing is an alternative where you pay a monthly fee to use the equipment for a set period (e.g., 3-5 years), reducing the upfront capital burden. Franance offers tailored financing solutions that can be more flexible than bank loans, often with faster approval times and terms structured around your facility's projected cash flow. For NGOs, funding may also be available through grants from international health organizations and foundations.
The 5-year total cost of ownership (TCO) for a mammography system in Nigeria is typically 1.5 to 2 times the initial purchase price. If you purchase a system for NGN 60 million, you should budget an additional NGN 30-60 million over the next five years. This TCO includes the initial capital outlay, annual service contracts (5-10% of the equipment value per year after warranty), the cost of power from a generator and UPS, cooling from air conditioning, and salaries for trained staff. The single largest potential cost is the replacement of the X-ray tube or digital detector, which can cost NGN 8 million to NGN 25 million respectively, so a comprehensive service contract is crucial for budget predictability.
Tertiary/Teaching Hospital Mammography Systems: Tertiary hospitals require high-throughput 3D tomosynthesis systems with advanced capabilities like contrast-enhanced mammography and stereotactic biopsy. Models such as the Hologic 3Dimensions or Siemens Mammomat Revelation are ideal. These systems are essential for handling complex diagnostic cases, training residents, and conducting research, justifying their premium price point of NGN 150M+.
Private Clinic/Diagnostics Mammography Systems: A private diagnostic centre is best served by a reliable and efficient 2D digital system or an entry-level 3D system that balances cost with excellent image quality. A new GE Senographe Crystal Nova or a professionally refurbished Hologic Selenia provides a strong return on investment, enabling high-quality screening and basic diagnostic services for a typical patient load.
NGO/Mobile Mammography Systems: NGOs and mobile screening programs need robust, durable, and easy-to-use 2D digital systems designed to withstand the rigours of transport and operate in environments with unstable power. Refurbished models are a highly cost-effective choice. The key is to pair the mammography unit with a ruggedized, truck-mounted power solution, including a generator and a heavy-duty UPS.
Emergency/Theatre/ICU Mammography Systems: Mammography systems are not used in emergency, theatre, or ICU settings. They are specialized diagnostic imaging tools located in a dedicated, radiation-shielded radiology suite designed for non-emergency, outpatient breast imaging procedures. For breast-related emergencies, an ultrasound machine is the appropriate imaging modality.
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A new digital mammography system in Nigeria costs between NGN 45 million and NGN 120 million. A high-end 3D system like the Hologic Selenia Dimensions falls in the upper range, while a 2D system such as the GE Senographe Essential is more accessible. The final price depends on features like tomosynthesis, detector size, and included diagnostic workstations. Always budget an additional 10-15% for installation and training.
You can buy reliable mammography machines from authorized distributors of major brands like GE, Siemens, Hologic, and Fuji. For example, local partners for GE Healthcare can supply the Senographe series with full warranty and support. Always verify their authorization certificate from the manufacturer to avoid grey market imports. Ask for reference sites in Lagos, like clinics in Ikoyi or Victoria Island, that use their equipment.
A quality refurbished digital mammography system costs between NGN 25 million and NGN 45 million in Nigeria. A refurbished Hologic Selenia (2D) is a common choice in this price bracket, offering excellent image quality for its cost. Ensure the system is refurbished by a certified engineer and comes with at least a 6-12 month warranty on the X-ray tube and detector, which are the most critical components.
A mammography system requires a dedicated 3-phase, 380-415V power line and a high-capacity UPS, typically 20-40 kVA. For instance, a Siemens Mammomat Inspiration needs a stable power source protected by a UPS to prevent damage to its sensitive electronics from power surges common in Nigeria. You must also install a dedicated, low-resistance (under 1 ohm) earth connection to ensure operator safety and image quality.
You can secure financing through asset financing loans from commercial banks or specialized medical equipment financiers. Companies like Franance offer lease-to-own programs tailored for healthcare facilities, allowing you to acquire a system like a Fuji Amulet Innovality with structured payments. This preserves your capital for operational expenses. You will need a solid business plan, cash flow projections, and company registration documents for your application.
A new machine is better for high-volume centres needing the latest technology like 3D tomosynthesis, but a refurbished unit offers the best value for new or mid-sized facilities. A new Hologic 3Dimensions system provides superior diagnostic accuracy for dense breasts. However, a professionally refurbished GE Senographe DS offers proven 2D digital imaging at less than half the cost, making it a practical choice for starting a breast screening service.
The Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) requires your mammography suite to have adequate radiation shielding, typically 1.5-2.0mm lead equivalence in the walls, doors, and viewing window. You must register the equipment with NNRA, obtain an import permit before shipping, and ensure operators are licensed. They will conduct a physical inspection in your facility in Abuja, Port Harcourt, or elsewhere before issuing a license to operate.
The physical installation of a mammography system takes approximately 5 to 7 working days, assuming the room is fully prepared. This includes mechanical assembly, electrical connections, and software setup for a model like the GE Senographe Pristina. However, the entire project, from room preparation (shielding, power) to final applications training and NNRA certification, typically takes 4 to 6 weeks.
The best and most widely supported brands in Nigeria are Hologic, GE Healthcare, and Siemens Healthineers. Hologic is the market leader in 3D tomosynthesis with its Selenia Dimensions and 3Dimensions systems. GE's Senographe series, like the Pristina and Essential, is known for its patient comfort features and reliability. Siemens' Mammomat series, including the Inspiration, offers excellent image quality and workflow efficiency.
The most affordable entry into digital mammography is typically a used or refurbished 2D system, costing around NGN 20-30 million. A refurbished GE Senographe 2000D or a Hologic Selenia are common options. While new systems from less-established brands may seem cheaper initially, they often lack the reliable local support, spare parts availability, and proven image quality of refurbished premium models.
Your mammography machine must undergo a full quality assurance (QA) calibration by a certified medical physicist at least once a year. Daily and weekly QA checks should also be performed by the radiographer using phantoms. For a system like the Siemens Mammomat Fusion, this ensures consistent image quality and accurate radiation dosage, which is a strict requirement for maintaining your NNRA license to operate.
Common problems include image artifacts from power fluctuations, detector failures due to heat and humidity, and gantry movement errors. For example, inconsistent power can cause 'ghosting' on images from a GE Senographe. A robust UPS (like a 30 kVA unit) is non-negotiable. Regular preventive maintenance, including cleaning detector contacts and checking motor belts every six months, can prevent over 70% of these issues.
Buying is better if you have the capital and want to own the asset outright, but leasing is smarter for managing cash flow and avoiding technological obsolescence. Leasing a Hologic Selenia Dimensions through a provider like Franance allows you to pay a fixed monthly fee, which includes maintenance, and potentially upgrade after 3-5 years. This is ideal for private hospitals in Lagos or Abuja facing high operational costs.
Yes, 3D mammography, or tomosynthesis, is available in Nigeria and provides a more detailed breast image by taking multiple X-rays from different angles. This technology, found in systems like the Hologic Selenia Dimensions and GE Senographe Pristina with the 3D option, is particularly effective for women with dense breast tissue. It improves cancer detection rates by 20-40% compared to standard 2D mammography.
Annual maintenance contract costs for a mammography system in Nigeria range from 5% to 10% of the equipment's purchase price. For a system valued at NGN 60 million, expect to pay NGN 3-6 million per year. A comprehensive contract for a Siemens Mammomat typically covers two preventive maintenance visits, software updates, and replacement parts, excluding the X-ray tube and detector after their warranty period.
Choose a supplier with direct authorization from the manufacturer, a dedicated team of factory-trained engineers, and a local stock of critical spare parts. Ask for a list of their current installations, for example, which hospitals in Kano or Port Harcourt use their Hologic or GE systems. A reliable supplier will offer a comprehensive warranty and a clear service level agreement (SLA) with guaranteed response times.
You need a minimum room size of 12 square meters (e.g., 3m x 4m) for the mammography unit itself. However, a comfortable and functional suite requires about 20-25 square meters to accommodate the control console area, a patient changing space, and adequate clearance for wheelchair access. For a system like the GE Senographe Essential, the manufacturer's pre-installation manual will provide the exact footprint and clearance specifications.
Yes, you need a dedicated generator with sufficient capacity, typically at least 60-80 kVA, to power the entire mammography suite, including the UPS and air conditioning. The generator must have an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) to ensure stable output. Powering a sensitive system like a Hologic Selenia Dimensions directly from an unstable generator without a proper UPS will lead to costly electronic damage.
The operator must be a licensed radiographer with specific training in mammography. The equipment supplier provides applications training, which typically lasts 3-5 days on-site after installation of a system like the Fuji Amulet Innovality. This covers machine operation, quality control procedures, and patient positioning. For advanced techniques like tomosynthesis-guided biopsy, further specialized training is necessary.
Request a Letter of Authorization from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), such as Hologic, Siemens, or GE. This letter should explicitly name the Nigerian company as their approved sales and service partner. You can also contact the OEM's regional office (often in South Africa or UAE) to confirm the supplier's status. Avoid suppliers who cannot provide this direct, verifiable proof of partnership.
The lifespan of a mammography X-ray tube is typically 5 to 7 years, or around 100,000 to 200,000 exposures, depending on usage and maintenance. For a busy diagnostic centre in Abuja using a Siemens Mammomat Inspiration, you might reach this limit sooner. The cost of a replacement tube is significant, often NGN 8-15 million, so it's a critical factor to budget for over the system's lifetime.
Yes, NAFDAC regulates mammography machines as medical devices and requires them to be registered before they can be imported, sold, or used in Nigeria. Your supplier is responsible for handling the NAFDAC registration for the specific model, such as a GE Senographe Pristina. You should request a copy of the NAFDAC registration certificate for your chosen system as part of your due diligence process.
While technically possible with a specialized mammography CR reader and cassettes, it is now considered outdated and provides inferior image quality compared to modern Direct Radiography (DR) systems. A full-field digital mammography (FFDM) system like the Hologic Selenia offers significantly better contrast and spatial resolution, which is critical for detecting microcalcifications. Most regulatory bodies and best practices strongly recommend DR over CR for mammography.
A medical physicist is essential for ensuring your mammography equipment is safe and accurate. They perform acceptance testing on new installations, like a Siemens Mammomat, to verify it meets specifications. Annually, they conduct a full performance evaluation, including radiation dose measurements and image quality tests, to comply with NNRA regulations. Their report is mandatory for renewing your license to operate.
First, identify the artifact type. Dust on the compression paddle or detector creates sharp, dark spots, which can be cleaned with approved solutions. A 'ghost' image of a previous exposure on a GE Senographe system may indicate detector lag, requiring a recalibration. Streaks or lines often point to a detector element failure, which needs a service engineer to diagnose and potentially replace the detector, a costly repair.
A mammography phantom, like the Gammex 156 or CIRS 015, is a test object that simulates the characteristics of breast tissue. You need it to perform daily and weekly quality control (QC) tests on your system, such as a Hologic Selenia Dimensions. These tests verify image quality, contrast, and resolution, ensuring your machine is performing correctly. Documenting these QC results is a mandatory requirement for both accreditation and NNRA compliance.
Screening mammography is a routine exam for women with no symptoms, typically involving two standard X-ray views of each breast. Diagnostic mammography is used to investigate a specific problem, like a lump or abnormal screening result, and involves additional views or techniques like spot compression and magnification. Systems like the GE Senographe Pristina are designed to perform both types of exams efficiently.
You need a small, air-conditioned, and secure space for the server (acquisition workstation), often located in the control room adjacent to the mammogram machine. The radiologist's review workstation, a high-resolution dual-monitor setup for a system like the Hologic SecurView, should be in a separate, dimly lit reading room to optimize diagnostic accuracy. This reading room should be at least 6-8 square meters.
Import duty for medical equipment like mammography systems is often set at 0% by the government to encourage healthcare investment, but you must pay 7.5% VAT. Clearing costs, including port charges, agency fees, and logistics, typically amount to 5-10% of the equipment's value. For a system valued at NGN 50 million, budget an additional NGN 6-8 million for VAT and clearing expenses in Apapa or Tin Can port.
Yes, a dedicated air conditioner is mandatory for the mammography room to maintain the required operating temperature and humidity, typically 20-24°C and 40-60% humidity. The detector in a digital system like the Siemens Mammomat is extremely sensitive to heat and moisture. Failure to maintain a stable environment will cause image artifacts, reduce the detector's lifespan, and can void your manufacturer's warranty.