One-to-one comparison between digital spot compression view and digital breast tomosynthesis

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Medical Imaging
• Breast Cancer Screening Technologies

Background:

• Digital spot compression views (DSCVs) are frequently utilized in breast screening programs.
• Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) presents a modern alternative for mammographic imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate if digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) offers diagnostic accuracy comparable to digital spot compression view (DSCV).
• To compare the effectiveness of DBT versus DSCV in identifying breast abnormalities in recalled patients without calcifications.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 52 women with screening abnormalities but no calcifications.
• Both DBT and DSCV imaging were acquired following institutional approval and informed consent.
• Diagnostic accuracy was assessed by two radiologists with varying experience levels.

Main Results:

• Overall sensitivity was identical for both DBT and DSCV (100%).
• DBT exhibited higher overall specificity (100%) compared to DSCV (94%).
• The area under the curve (AUC) was greater for DBT (1.0) than for DSCV (0.963), indicating superior diagnostic performance.

Conclusions:

• In recalls without calcification, DBT demonstrated diagnostic accuracy at least equal to DSCV.
• DBT has the potential to reduce recall rates due to its comparable or superior diagnostic performance and potentially lower mean glandular dose.
• DBT serves as a viable alternative to DSCV in breast cancer screening.