Is pain from mammography reduced by the use of a radiolucent MammoPad? Local experience in Hong Kong.

INTRODUCTION: Screening mammogram can decrease the mortality of breast cancer. Studies show that women avoid mammogram because of fear of pain, diagnosis, and radiation. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a radiolucent pad (MammoPad; Hologic Inc, Bedford [MA], US) during screening mammogram to reduce pain in Chinese patients and the possibility of glandular dose reduction. METHODS: This case series was conducted in a private hospital in Hong Kong. Between November 2011 and January 2012, a total of 100 Chinese patients were recruited to our study. Left mammogram was performed without MammoPad and served as a control. Right mammogram was performed with the radiolucent MammoPad. All patients were then requested to complete a simple questionnaire. The degree of pain and discomfort was rated on a 0-10 numeric analogue scale. Significant reduction in discomfort was defined as a decrease of 10% or more. RESULTS: Of the 100 patients enrolled in this study, 66.3% of women reported at least a 10% reduction in the level of discomfort with the use of MammoPad. No statistical differences between age, breast size, and the level of discomfort were found. CONCLUSION: The use of MammoPad significantly reduced the level of discomfort experienced during mammography. Radiation dose was also reduced.