A state-of-the-art scanning machine will halve the rate of patients having to undergo repeat surgeries for breast cancer.

The £68,000 BioVision, by x-ray company Flaxitron, examines extracted tumours mid-surgery to ensure enough surrounding breast tissue has also been removed.

If the safe limit has not been reached, surgeons can return to the patient then and there meaning further operations are avoided.

Every year consultant surgeon Ibrahim Ahmed’s team at Medway Maritime Hospital sees more than 4,000 patients and operate on about 400, around 20% of whom require additional surgery.

It is hoped that last figure can be halved with the help of the new equipment, which is now up and running at the hospital.

Lead clinician for breast cancer Mr Ahmed, who has worked at the site in Windmill Road, Gillingham, for 20 years, said: “This is the only such machine in the hospital.

“It is a great addition to our work. We’re very thankful to the Medway and Swale (West) Association for Breast Cancer for their hard work.”

The support group raised £25,000 while vice chairman Angela Blackwell added £13,500 over two years to pay for the machine.

The 69-year-old, from Walderslade, underwent a mastectomy 25 years ago and has been attending the monthly group ever since.

The mother-of-two said: “The fact I had my operation 25 years ago and I’m still here gives hope to women getting their diagnosis today.

“It’s important they realise it’s not all doom and gloom. The way technology has advanced in that period is amazing.

“The group is for all those affected by breast cancer and they’re welcome to bring along friends or family members for additional support.”

The breast cancer unit at the hospital employs three specialist nurses, with one attending each support group session.

The group meets on the first Tuesday of every month from 7pm to 9pm in Area 7 of the hospital.

n For more call Mrs Blackwell on 01634 861802.