Frequently Asked Questions
Is MammoPad® cleared by the FDA?
Yes, MammoPad received its 510(K) clearance on February 14, 2001.
Can MammoPad be used on any mammography machine?
Yes. MammoPad is available in several different sizes to accommodate all commercially available mammography machines, including full-field digital ones. Consult with your MammoPad Specialist to determine the appropriate size MammoPad for your machines.
Is MammoPad bio-compatible?
Yes. MammoPad is non-toxic, non-irritating, and latex-free.
Can MammoPad be reused?
No. MammoPad is a single-use cushion, designed to provide a clean surface for each woman.
Is MammoPad recyclable?
The foam used to manufacture MammoPad is recyclable. MammoPads are currently recycled into carpet
padding. Recycling is available for free to our customers committed to providing MammoPad as Standard of
Care. Consult with your MammoPad Specialist for more information.
How does MammoPad affect overall image quality?
MammoPad can be used with confidence on both digital and analog mammography equipment. Clinical
studies have shown that MammoPad does not interfere with image quality nor does it require increased
radiation dosage. These findings have been consistently confirmed by radiologists, physicists and
technologists in over 1,500 mammography facilities. MammoPad has also been used in more than 30 million
images since its market introduction in 2001.
How can MammoPad help technologists with compression?
MammoPad can actually help technologists achieve greater compression while reducing women's discomfort
by half. In a clinical study conducted with more than 500 patients, technologists achieved an average of 13-
15% greater compression.
How does MammoPad help positioning and tissue acquisition?
MammoPad's grip-like surface helps to immobilize the breast, making proper breast positioning easier. In
addition, studies found that MammoPad, when used in conjunction with positioning training, actually helps
technologists achieve 10-20% greater tissue acquisition.
Will MammoPad interfere with imaging of the chest wall?
No. In fact, many technologists find that MammoPad makes it easier to image the chest wall. MammoPad
cushions patients' ribs, allowing them to lean further into the machine. Also, MammoPad provides warmth
against their chests, helping their muscles to relax.
How does MammoPad affect imaging of the inframammary fold?
Technologists often report that MammoPad makes imaging the inframammary fold easier. The cushion
removes pressure from the patients' ribs and chest muscles, making them less likely to pull away from the
machine.
Are there reasons to use MammoPad for patients who don't complain about pain?
Yes. Women may not report their pain but still feel discomfort because of the cold, hard surface edges of the
mammography machine. Without MammoPad, they may have trouble leaning in or relaxing their muscles. In
addition, MammoPad's grip-like surface holds the breast in place for optimal positioning and tissue acquisition
of all patients, resulting in the best possible exam regardless of discomfort. Finally, using MammoPad shows
your patients you care about their mammography experience and paves the way for better breast health.
Does MammoPad need to be included when performing phantom and dose QC tests?
According to the MQSA's Policy Guidance Health System, centers who use the breast cushion for a majority of
their patients must include it when performing the phantom and dose QC tests in order to simulate the typical
clinical conditions as closely as possible (21 CFR 900.12(e)(2))
