Expertise in next-generation diagnostics, including Contrast-Enhanced Spectral Mammography (CESM) and Digital Breast Tomosynthesis, improving cancer detection rates.
Vacuum-Assisted Biopsy and Excision (VAB/VAE) Dr. Hajaj implemented Vacuum-Assisted procedures as a standard first-line diagnostic tool at the Kettering Breast Unit, Leicester University Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, and the Jarvis Breast Centre. This pivotal move helped achieve a milestone 100% pre-operative breast cancer diagnosis rate and eliminated diagnostic delays.
Dr. Hajaj established and launched dedicated Breast MRI Services across several regions, expanding access to advanced imaging for symptomatic and high-risk patients. His expertise includes founding and launching Qatar’s inaugural Breast MRI-guided Biopsy Service.
Dr. Hajaj established innovative clinical workflows to optimize patient journeys. This includes pioneering a transformative “one-stop” breast clinic model at Hamad Medical Corporation and leading the integration of high-risk patients into the National Breast Screening System (NBSS). His work focuses on streamlining diagnostic pathways and enhancing patient access.
Dr. Hajaj introduced Targeted Axillary Dissection (TAD) at Kettering General Hospital in collaboration with oncoplastic surgeons. He also established Qatar’s first wireless breast tumour localisation service, enhancing surgical accuracy and patient comfort during breast-conserving procedures
Dr. Hajaj is an International Trainer and workshops leader on different Vacuum Biopsy systems. He founded and directed the Breast Imaging Fellowship program at Hamad Medical Corporation , creating a sustainable training pipeline for future specialists. He is committed to promoting education and research, having led research projects and organized courses in the UK and the Middle East.
Research Expertise Summary
Dr Mohamad Hajaj is an academically driven Consultant Breast Radiologist with an extensive research record spanning breast MRI, screening performance, benign and malignant breast disease, vacuum-assisted biopsy techniques, and quality assurance in population breast screening. His work integrates clinical excellence with evidence-based innovation, contributing to improved diagnostic pathways and patient outcomes across the UK and internationally.
Over the past two decades, Dr Hajaj has produced influential peer-reviewed publications, case reports, and multicentre collaborations featured in respected journals including European Journal of Radiology, Clinical Radiology, European Journal of Breast Health, The Breast, and Journal of Surgery and Research. His publication highlights include:
Selected Publication Highlights
• Migration of localisation wire into the axilla during wire-guided excision of a breast tumour Journal of Surgery and Research, 2020 – A notable case report examining a rare and important complication in breast surgery, with emphasis on safety and surgical decision-making.
• Breast Cancer Detection in Qatar: Evaluation of Mammography Quality Using a Standardized Assessment Tool European Journal of Breast Health, 2020 – A quality-improvement study assessing mammography standards within a national screening programme.
• Axillary tumour burden in women with single versus multiple abnormal axillary nodes on ultrasound Clinical Radiology, 2017 – A significant collaborative paper refining preoperative axillary staging and influencing surgical planning.
• Impact of preoperative MRI on the management of high-grade DCIS European Journal of Radiology, 2017 – A widely referenced study exploring the value of MRI in detecting additional disease and optimising surgical outcomes.
• Cost-effectiveness and clinical utility of Vacuum-Assisted Biopsy for screen-detected indeterminate lesions The Breast, 2015 – An early evaluation supporting the growth of VAB/VAE services and minimally invasive breast interventions.
• Prospective MRI assessment in invasive lobular carcinoma: correlation with pathology and surgical impact Clinical Radiology, 2013 – Research highlighting the unique behaviour of lobular cancer and the critical role of MRI in surgical planning.
• Essay on Mammary Gland Biopsy Czech Radiology Magazine, 2001 – A foundational academic piece reflecting early interest in breast intervention techniques.
Research Themes and Academic Contributions
Dr Hajaj’s scholarship Centres on:
• Advanced Breast MRI – diagnostic accuracy, preoperative staging, high-risk screening, and MRI-driven surgical planning.
• Breast Screening Quality & Performance – mammography QA, interval cancer analysis, discrepant reviews, and screening pathway optimisation.
• Axillary Staging – ultrasound assessment, tumour burden prediction, and integration of imaging into surgical strategy.
• Minimally Invasive Breast Interventions – vacuum-assisted biopsy/excision, cost-effectiveness, and service development.
• Benign Breast Disease – case-based research including complex benign lesions and diagnostic pitfalls.
Dr Hajaj has presented at major national and international conferences including EUSOBI, UKIO, and the Women’s Health Summit, and delivers hands-on workshops in vacuum-assisted procedures (including industry-sponsored European faculty roles).
He also founded an international Breast Imaging Fellowship Programme in 2019, mentoring radiologists worldwide and contributing to the global advancement of breast imaging standards.
PRIVATE PATIENT CLINICS: Spire Leicester Hospital: Tuesday, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM (Direct Line: +44 116 272 0888) Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital: Wednesday, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM (Direct Line: +44 116 274 3753) NHS CONSULTANT SERVICE: Nottingham Breast Institute: Hucknall Rd, Nottingham NG5 1PB, UK.