SUMMARY
Researchers in the UCLA Radiation Oncology Department have developed a supine breast CT for image-guided detection and diagnosis of breast cancer.
BACKGROUND
Mammography is the “gold standard” method for early stage breast cancer detection. While effective in reducing the modality rate due to breast cancer, mammography only provides a 2D image and is unable to differentiate overlapping tissues in the projection direction (particularly in patients with dense breast tissue). Paired with the compression required for mammography that can be hard to tolerate for some patients, new methods are needed for 3D breast cancer detection and diagnosis.
INNOVATION
UCLA researchers have developed a 3D supine breast CT that can better detect and diagnose breast cancer. Unlike other breast CTs that are performed in both the prone and upright positions, this supine breast CT is performed in the supine position. It is compatible with interventional procedures without sacrificing patient comfort. The system allows for auto- position and angular adjustment, and registers the 3D geometry relative to the room. The detector, which is separate from the X-ray tube, can be used for short scan CBCT, obtaining sufficient data for 3D reconstruction while minimizing patient imaging dose. Lastly, this method can potentially be used with radiotherapy and treatment, making it a potential CT/radiotherapy integrated system.
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS
ADVANTAGES
STATUS OF DATE
The device has been assembled and successfully demonstrated.