AbstractID: 10113 Title: CT Imaging of the Breast with a Novel New System
Historically, the use of Computed Tomography for imaging breast tissue in the USA has
been relegated to determining local/ regional breast cancer recurrence and extent of
disease. The primary reasons for its’ lack of use in the detection and diagnosis of breast
cancer have been identified as inferior image quality, high radiation dose, inability to
cover the entire breast and difficult patient positioning.
In 1975, a custom designed CT for Breast was developed by General Electric and
underwent extensive clinical study at the Mayo Clinic and the University of Kansas
Medical Center. While initial results were most promising, the product never came to
market due to high dose, poor resolution and use of IV Contrast. As such, mammography
has grown to be the gold standard in breast imaging.
In the mid 1990s’, research in Cone beam CT for breast imaging was underway at UC
Davis and University of Rochester Medical Center. Prototypes of dedicated Cone Beam
CT Scanners for the breast have been developed at both institutions with more than
favorable results compared to mammography in radiation dose, coverage of the breast
tissue and image quality.
With multislice/ multiplaner and 3D capability, Cone Beam CT surpasses 2D projection
imaging as a viable diagnostic tool and has the potential to become a commercial success.
This lecture will present the clinical results of an dedicated Cone Beam CT for breast
imaging and it’s comparison to digital mammography.
Educational Objectives:
1- Understand the current use of CT in Breast Imaging and its limitations
2- Understand the development history of CT imaging of the breast.
3- Understand the diagnostic value and capabilities of a modern dedicated Cone
Beam CT for Breast Imaging