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Updated: Jan 23, 2026

Tissue-simulating Phantoms for Assessing Potential Near-infrared Fluorescence Imaging Applications in Breast Cancer Surgery
Published on: September 19, 2014
A phantom study comparing technical image quality of five breast tomosynthesis systems.
Veli-Matti Sundell1, Mikko Jousi2, Katja Hukkinen3
1HUS Medical Imaging Center, Radiology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland; Department of Physics, University of Helsinki, Finland.
Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) systems show significant variations in image quality. Phantom testing revealed differences in artefact spread, resolution, and noise, impacting diagnostic performance.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Radiology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) is an advanced 3D breast imaging technique.
- Variations in DBT system acquisition and processing can influence image quality and patient radiation dose.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate and compare the technical performance of five leading DBT systems.
- Assess image quality parameters across different DBT manufacturers and modes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized four quality assurance phantoms for standardized phantom measurements.
- Assessed technical image quality including artefact extent, in-plane resolution (MTF analysis), noise power spectrum, and geometric accuracy.
Main Results:
- Artefact spread varied significantly, with FWHM ranging from 3.5 mm to 10.7 mm.
- Observed in-plane resolution anisotropy; MTF50 values differed between tube travel and chest wall-nipple directions.
- Distinct differences in noise power spectra and high geometric accuracy (within 0.5%) were noted across systems.
Conclusions:
- Technical image quality assessments using phantoms highlight substantial differences among DBT systems.
- Variations in artefact spread, in-plane resolution, and noise properties necessitate careful system selection.
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