Optimization of the exposure parameters in digital mammography using contrast-detail metrics

Optimization studies in digital mammography aid to assure the image quality and radiological protection of the patient. The aim of this work is to test effectiveness and applicability of a method based on a Figure of Merit (FOM=(IQF_inv)²/AGD) to improve all the exposure parameters (Target/Filter combination, kVp and mAs) in order to improve the image acquisition technique that will provide the best compromise between image quality and the average glandular dose (AGD).

A contrast-detail analysis, employing the test object CDMAM, was carried out for the digital mammography unit manufactured by Lorad Hologic - model Selenia. We simulated two breast thicknesses using phantoms and a Figure of Merit as optimization tool, which includes an indicator of image quality, the IQF_inv and the average glandular dose. Images of the ACR and TORMAM phantoms were obtained with both, automatic and optimized exposure parameters. In order to compare the image quality, the SNR (Signal to Noise Ratio) was measured in each image.

In the two phantoms, for both 4.5 and 7.5cm thicknesses, the AGDs obtained with the optimized parameters show a reduction. In addition, the images obtained with the optimized exposure parameters, had the same or a better image quality when compared to the images obtained using the automatic mode.

The proposed optimization methodology proved to be an effective tool to improve the digital mammography unit, due to the use of objective metrics for evaluation and validation of the results.