Measuring Differential Volume Using the Subtraction Tool for Three-Dimensional Breast Volumetry: A Proof of Concept...

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering
• 3D Photography

Background:

• Three-dimensional (3D) photography offers a promising method for breast volumetry.
• Single-captured surface methods for breast volume calculation face errors due to inaccurate boundary designation and software prediction of the chest wall.
• Differential volume measurement via subtraction of two captured surfaces presents an alternative approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore 3D breast volumetry by calculating differential volume through image subtraction.
• To determine optimal patient positioning for accurate volumetric assessment in 3D breast imaging.

Main Methods:

• Utilized known volumes of breast enhancers (n=12) to simulate volumetric changes.
• Acquired 3D photographs using 3dMDtorso with subjects in upright (90°) and posterior incline (30°) positions.
• Standardized patient position, breathing, distance, and camera calibration for volumetric analysis using 3dMDvultus software.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant difference between actual and measured breast volumes was observed at the 90° position (P < .05).
• No statistical difference was found at the 30° position (P = .078), though Bland-Altman analysis indicated proportional bias (P < .05).
• Good correlation between measured and actual volumes was achieved in both positions (r = .77 and r = .85).

Conclusions:

• Positioning subjects at a 30° posterior incline improves the accuracy of 3D breast volumetry by enhancing visualization of the inferior breast.
• The subtraction tool represents a novel methodology for measuring differential breast volume.
• Further research is recommended to adapt this methodology for clinical applications.