RSNA 2025: Siemens Healthineers Augments Mammomat B.brilliant Capabilities

Siemens Healthineers introduced new capabilities for its Mammomat B.brilliant mammography system this week at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) Annual Meeting (Nov. 30-Dec. 4, Chicago). The added functionalities aim to advance contrast-enhanced mammography and biopsy functionality.

In addition to generating high-resolution 3D breast images via wide-angle tomosynthesis in only five seconds,¹ the Mammomat B.brilliant will now be equipped² with a newly developed image reconstruction technique for contrast-enhanced examinations. This technique delivers clarity and consistency, reducing the need to switch imaging modalities and enabling faster diagnosis. Designed for cost-effectiveness and high availability, this on-site solution helps radiology practices maximize their long-term potential, according to Siemens Healthineers.

Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) is a highly sensitive imaging technique that is clinically indicated, for example, to clarify inconclusive findings, or to assess disease extent preoperatively. By leveraging differences in contrast uptake between healthy and malignant tissue, as well as the distinct X-ray absorption properties of iodine versus breast tissue, CEM supports radiologists in identifying and characterizing suspicious findings with greater confidence.

“Our goal was to empower clinicians with a solution that strengthens diagnostic confidence and broadens access to advanced imaging within the mammography workflow,” said Verena Schön, head of X-ray Products at Siemens Healthineers. With mammography being the most accessible breast imaging method, expanding the capabilities of existing systems is key to improving access to advanced diagnostics. “Given the anxiety associated with the clarification of potential findings detected in breast cancer screening, accelerating time-to-diagnosis is essential. It reflects our commitment to innovation in women’s healthcare and to delivering personalized care.”

The newly developed ClearCEM image reconstruction technique for the Mammomat B.brilliant² provides crystal-clear enhancement and consistent image quality that supports lesion detection. Powered by advanced algorithms, it generates a more uniform background that supports differentiation of suspicious areas. This supports clinical decision making and may enable faster treatment initiation, while reducing the need for additional imaging or unnecessary biopsies.

If a biopsy is required following a contrast-enhanced finding, the procedure is typically performed using contrast as well, ensuring continuity in diagnostic precision. ClearCEM provides a contrast localizer image for tomosynthesis-guided biopsy, which—thanks to high depth resolution—enables targeting accuracy within ±1 mm, potentially reducing time-to-diagnosis. The combination of ClearCEM-powered scout imaging and tomosynthesis-based targeting within the same compression boosts confidence and eases the biopsy procedure. The streamlined process can add to increased system availability, which is a key advantage in high-volume clinical settings.

“The image quality with ClearCEM is exceptional, even in dense breast tissue,” stated Dianne Georgian-Smith, M.D., a radiologist at Envision Healthcar in Nashville, Tenn. “ClearCEM provides a uniform background, which significantly improves the visibility of enhancing lesions.”³

Siemens Healthineers is a global provider of healthcare equipment, solutions and services, with activities in more than 180 countries and direct representation in over 70. The group comprises Siemens Healthineers AG, listed as SHL in Frankfurt, Germany, and its subsidiaries. The company is principally active in imaging, diagnostics, cancer care, and minimally invasive therapies, augmented by digital technology and artificial intelligence. In fiscal 2025—ended Sept. 30—Siemens Healthineers employed approximately 74,000 workers worldwide and generated around €23.4 billion in revenue.

References
¹ Data on file. For average breast size of 50/50 glandular/adipose tissue and 5 cm thickness.
² ClearCEM with Mammomat B.brilliant VA11 is pending 510(k) clearance, and is not yet commercially available in the USA. Mammomat B.brilliant is not commercially available in all countries. Due to regulatory reasons its future availability cannot be guaranteed.
³ The statements by customers of Siemens Healthineers described herein are based on results that were achieved in the customer’s unique setting. Because there is no “typical” hospital or laboratory and many variables exist (e.g., hospital size, samples mix, case mix, level of IT and/or automation adoption) there can be no guarantee that other customers will achieve the same results. Dr. Diane Georgian-Smith receives financial support from Siemens Healthineers for collaborations.