Comparing eDQE and eNEQ metrics – is there an alternative approach to assessing image quality in digital mammography?

Abstract Introduction: Early detection of breast cancer requires high-quality mammographic images that have been made possible by the introduction new technologies, such as full-field digital mammography (FFDM). In this study, we perform extended measurements to calculate effective detective quantum efficiency (eDQE) and introduce noise equivalent quanta (eNEQ). Our aim was show how these two metrics relate image quality systems. Material methods: Measurements were performed for a Siemens Mammomat Inspiration GE Senographe Pristina system. Each equipped with an automatic exposure control (AEC) use in clinical setting. We used polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) phantom at thicknesses 20, 30, 40 70 mm cover range scatter conditions expected mammography, without anti-scatter grid. The system had a-Se detector, indirect-conversion detector. Kerma Piranha Black 657 meter (RTI Electronics AB). majority our calculations automated, using modified version software. Results: For systems evaluated, characterized physical parameters, modulation transfer function (eMTF), normalized power spectrum (eNNPS), eDQE eNEQ wide exposures, thicknesses, Results are presented spatial frequency. A contrast-detail analysis CDMAM 3.4 dedicated software (CDMAM 1.5.5, NCCPM) set different PMMA phantoms. Conclusions: successfully demonstrated metric can be option evaluate taken grid phantoms These results consistent obtained from CDMAM.