Idris A Elbakri PhD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Rob Entrekin MS, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Tim Danielson, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Cara Coad, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Jasjit Suri PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Roman Janer, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

We designed and constructed an integrated breast imaging system for simultaneous acquisition of X-ray and ultrasound images during a single breast compression. Our clinical goal is to improve specificity and sensitivity. This combined technology is based on Fischer Imaging's SencoScan FFDM scanner. With the integrated system, we observed no image quality or resolution degradation, and demonstrated X-ray and US image registration accuracy to less than two millimeters.

To assess X-ray performance, we evaluated the required X-ray dose for a 4.2 cm 50/50 breast; resolution and modulation transfer function and ACR phantom visualization. We also examined co-registration accuracy by imaging a custom grid phantom, and an anthropomorphic breast phantom with simulated masses and calcifications. The ultrasound system, based on Philips HDI 5000, was optimized for breast imaging using SonoCT real time spatial compounding. We used software developed by Philips to reconstruct the ultrasound 3D volume, and a MATLAB program to geometrically map ultrasound coordinates to their projection points in the X-ray plane.

We acquired X-ray and ultrasound images of a 5 cm x 10 cm x 5 cm FOV with a registration error less than 2.0 mm. Results with the anthropomorphic phantom showed that integrated ultrasound offers good differentiation between cystic and solid masses visible under X-ray. Because the breast support material is less attenuating than carbon fiber, a 50/50 4.2 cm breast required 16% less dose than it would with a regular SenoScan. The X-ray MTF was comparable to that of a regular SenoScan. For The ACR phantom, we show a visibility score of 4 fibers, 3 masses, and 3 speck groups.

The scanning technology of Fischer Imaging’s SenoScan is optimal for the acquisition of registered X-ray and ultrasound breast images. The design changes implemented on the SenoScan maintain X-ray and ultrasound image quality and enable accurate image co-registration. The integrated technology is expected to significantly improve the specificity and sensitivity over that of the component technologies.

R.E.: Rob Entrekin is an employee of Philips Ultrasound, a subcontractor for Fischer Imaging under this project.I.A.E.,T.D.,C.C.,R.J.,J.S.: This work is supported by NIH grant 1 R43 CA 100959-01Authors are employees of Fischer Imaging.

Elbakri, I, Entrekin, R, Danielson, T, Coad, C, Suri, J, Janer, R, Integrated X-ray and Ultrasound Breast Imaging Using Fischer Imaging’s SenoScan Full Field Digital Mammography Scanner.  Radiological Society of North America 2004 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2004 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2004/4412303.html