Jabari Calliste, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Andrew Tucker, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Otto Zhou PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Board of Directors, XinRay Systems Inc Research Grant, Carestream Health, Inc

Jianping Lu, Abstract Co-Author: Research Grant, Carestream Health, Inc

Cherie M. Kuzmiak DO, Abstract Co-Author: Research Grant, Siemens AG Research Grant, Zumatek, Inc

Yueh Z. Lee MD, PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Research Grant, Carestream Health, Inc

Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) involves acquiring images using a conventional x-ray source in continuous motion over an angular span. This results in anisotropic spatial resolution, with a subsequent reduction in microcalcification (MC) image quality compared to 2D mammography imaging. We have developed a stationary breast tomosynthesis system (s-DBT) using a CNT X-ray source array. This system allows for the acquisition of projection images over an angular span with zero tube motion in rapid succession. This study presents the comparison of s-DBT to continuous motion DBT.

Twenty three patients scheduled for needle-localized biopsies with breast legions (BIRADS 4 or 5) were recruited under the university’s institutional review board regulations. Surgical specimens were imaged using a continuous motion DBT Selenia Dimensions system (Hologic Inc., Bedford, MA) and an s-DBT system. Tomosynthesis data sets were acquired on both systems using the similar parameters, 15 projection images at a tube potential of 26 kVp and 100 mAs exposure. The angular span of the s-DBT system is 28o while that of the DBT is 15o. The estimated area of the MCs was used as the figure of merit in evaluating both DBT systems.

12 of the 23 patients had microcalcifications for analysis. Area estimates of MC were smaller by the s-DBT system compared to the DBT. Decreases in MC area in the x-y plane from DBT to s-DBT of up to 43% were observed. A narrower ASF was observed for every MC imaged by the s-DBT compared to the DBT. On average a reduction of 2 mm in FWHM of the ASF curve is observed.

Increased spatial resolution in the s-DBT system was apparent in all tomosynthesis data set. The results are indicative of s-DBT producing increased MC conspicuity in human breast tissue compared to a Selenia Dimensions DBT system. Reader studies are ongoing comparing the visibility of MC in s-DBT verses that of the DBT system.

The use of a stationary breast tomosynthesis system in a clinical setting can offer superior image quality compare to DBT system. Improvement in MC imaging in DBT may eventually negate the need for a 2D mammography image, resulting in a reduction of patient dose.

Calliste, J, Tucker, A, Zhou, O, Lu, J, Kuzmiak, C, Lee, Y, Microcalcification Visibility in Surgical Biopsy Specimens Using a Stationary Digital Breast Tomosynthesis System.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14018733.html