Improved Mammographic Technique for Breast Cancer Diagnosis

摘要

During the entire project period, we have completed the following tasks: (1) Develop computerized breast border detection and classification scheme. (2) Develop and evaluate exposure equalization filters. (3) Monte Carlo modeling of mammographic imaging systems and optimization of imaging techniques. (4) Design and build breast-tissue-equivalent phantoms for x-ray and ultrasound imaging. (5) Evaluate effects of equalization on image quality. (6) Develop a novel combined x-ray equalization and ultrasound imaging system for improved evaluation of dense breasts and mammographic lesions. (7) Design and build a compressible tank and a special compression paddle for combined imaging. (8) Evaluate tissue-equivalent fluids for x-ray equalization and ultrasound coupling. (9) Perform phantom study to evaluate the feasibility of combined imaging. (10) Develop breast density segmentation program for automated localization of dense tissue regions on digitized mammograms. (11) Design and build a prototype motorized ultrasound scanning device for the combined imaging system. These studies are consistent with the goals of our proposed project. Our new approach of using a compressible tank containing tissue-equivalent fluid for x%ay equalization in a prone mammography system provides truly patient-specific equalization for breasts of any size and shape, and for any mammographic view. Our studies indicate that x-ray equalization can improve visibility of breast lesions on mammograms. We also demonstrated that the feasibility of developing a combined x-ray and ultrasound imaging system for improved breast imaging. The capability of allowing ultrasound scanning in the same geometry as mammography has the promise to improve breast cancer detection and diagnosis in dense breasts.