Comparison between breast volume measurement using 3D surface imaging and classical techniques

Quantification of the complex breast region can be helpful in breast surgery, which is shaped by subjective influences. However, there is no generally recognized method for breast volume calculation. Three-dimensional (3D) body surface imaging represents a new alternative for breast volume computation. The aim of this work was to compare breast volume calculation with 3D scanning and three classic methods, focusing on relative advantages, disadvantages, and reproducibility. Repeated breast volume calculations of both breasts in six patients (n=12) were performed using a 3D laser scanner, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), thermoplastic castings, and anthropomorphic measurements. Mean volumes (cc) and mean measurement deviations were calculated, and regression analyses were performed. MRI showed the highest measurement precision, with a mean deviation (expressed as a percentage of mean breast volume) of 1.56+/-0.52% compared with 2.27+/-0.99% for the 3D scanner, 7.97+/-3.53% for thermoplastic castings, and 6.26+/-1.56% for the anthropomorphic measurements. Breast volume calculations using MRI showed the best agreement with 3D scanning measurement (r=0.990), followed by anthropomorphic measurement (r=0.947), and thermoplastic castings (r=0.727). Compared with three classical methods of breast volume calculation, 3D scanning provides acceptable accuracy for breast volume measurements, better spatial interpretation of the anatomical area to be operated on (due to lack of chest deformation), non-invasiveness, and good patient tolerance. After this preliminary study and further development, we believe that 3D body surface scanning could provide better preoperative planning and postoperative control in everyday clinical practice.