Bermuda Hospitals Board this week performed 3D mammograms for the first time this week.

BHB upgraded its digital mammography unit to provide an imaging test that combines multiple X-rays to create a three-dimensional picture of the breast.

Renee Butterfield, the imaging services clinical manager, said: “There was a real excitement in the air with our mammography team.”

Tanya Smith was the first to have her mammogram done with the new machine.

She said: “It was actually quicker than the last one that I remember. It was great.”

Ms Smith told other women: “I would say definitely come and get it done. The ladies here make it so easy for you. You don’t even have to think about it. Before you know it you’re done.”

Carla Cann and Terri Farnan, technologists at the imaging centre, said: “We are so proud that we not only have a 3D unit but that our software is the most up to date of any on the island.”

Installation of an Ivenia automated breast ultrasound system, which, combined with the 3D mammogram, will provide better imaging of dense breast tissue, will be carried out in the next few weeks.

Daniel Stovell, the BHB chief of radiology, said the clearer images will make it easier to detect problems early.

Dr Stovell said: “These upgrades represent a significant improvement in our service to the public.”