By Stuart S. Kaplan, MD, FACR, FSBI

Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent health challenges for women today, and early detection continues to be our most effective defense. Yet despite widespread awareness, many women still delay or avoid mammograms—most often because of discomfort caused by compression. At Mount Sinai Medical Center, we are committed to improving both the accuracy and experience of breast imaging, which is why we are evaluating an innovative new technology: the Koning Vera Breast CT.

The Koning Breast CT is the first dedicated breast computed tomography system installed within a comprehensive breast center in Florida. Unlike traditional mammography, which produces two-dimensional images and requires compression, this system creates a true three-dimensional, 360-degree image of the entire breast in a single seven-second rotation, without any compression. The result is a fast, comfortable exam that produces detailed volumetric images, allowing radiologists to see through dense tissue with exceptional clarity.

The medical center is currently conducting a clinical study to evaluate how this technology compares with mammography and MRI in women who have undergone prior imaging. To date, more than 20 patients have enrolled, with plans to continue for at least 12 months. The study is particularly focused on women with dense breast tissue, where traditional mammography can sometimes obscure small but clinically significant findings.

The exam’s radiation dose is comparable to that of a standard mammogram, an important consideration for referring physicians and patients alike. For women who cannot tolerate MRI because of claustrophobia, metal implants, or time constraints, breast CT offers a comfortable, efficient alternative. The system also allows for contrast-enhanced imaging, providing additional diagnostic information similar to MRI for select patients.

The goal is to determine whether this technology can improve detection and streamline the diagnostic process without adding complexity or discomfort. Early results have been encouraging, and patient feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly among women who have avoided screening in the past because of discomfort.

As we look toward the opening of Mount Sinai’s Braman Comprehensive Cancer Center in 2026, innovations like the Koning Breast CT reflect our ongoing commitment to advancing medicine through innovation, research, and compassionate, patient-centered care.

By removing barriers to screening and improving diagnostic precision, we can help more women detect cancer earlier—and that can make all the difference.

Dr. Stuart Kaplan is Section Chief, Breast Imaging, Mount Sinai Medical Center.