Assessment of task?based performance from five clinical DBT systems using an anthropomorphic breast phantom

Purpose Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) is a limited-angle tomographic imaging modality that can be used for cancer screening in conjunction with full-field digital mammography (FFDM) or synthetic (SM). Currently, there are five commercial DBT systems have been approved by the U.S. FDA screening, all varying greatly design and protocol. Because different technical specifications, need quantitative approach assessing them. In this study, assessed using novel methodology an inkjet-printed anthropomorphic phantom four alternative forced choice (4AFC) study scheme. Method A was fabricated inkjet printing parchment paper. The contained 5-mm spiculated masses potassium iodide (KI)-doped ink microcalcifications (MCs) made calcium hydroxyapatite. Images of were acquired on DBT, FFDM, SM modalities where available beam settings under automatic exposure control. 4AFC conducted to assess reader performance each signal modality. Statistical analysis performed data determine proportion correct (PC), standard deviations, levels significance. Results For masses, overall detection highest DBT. difference PC statistically significant between most systems. relationship observed increasing greater gantry span. MCs, FFDM compared SM. manufacturers. Conclusions This represents evaluating first its kind use realistic signals clinical