Mammographic Imaging Process in DBP 21703 Lecture

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What is the function of compression and magnification in mammography?

Compression reduces thickness and spreads out tissue, while magnification helps to visualize small details and lesions.

How does subject contrast in breast imaging differ from conventional radiography?

In breast imaging, breast tissues intrinsically lack subject contrast, as they have similar effective atomic numbers and density, unlike the large difference in mass density and atomic number among bone, muscle, fat, and lung tissue in conventional radiography.

What is the difference between conventional screen-film mammography and digital mammography?

Conventional screen-film mammography uses photographic film, while digital mammography captures and stores the images electronically.

What is breast tomosynthesis and its function in breast imaging?

Breast tomosynthesis is a 3D imaging technique that produces multiple images of the breast tissue at different angles, helping to improve the detection of lesions and reduce false positives. Signup and view all the answers

How can image quality in mammography be improved?

Image quality in mammography can be improved by enhancing differential absorption in very similar breast tissues and reducing overlapping structures through techniques like breast tomosynthesis. Signup and view all the answers

Why do breast tissues require specific design features in mammography?

Breast tissues require specific design features in mammography to enhance differential absorption in very similar tissue, as they intrinsically lack subject contrast. Signup and view all the answers

What is the major disadvantage of using low kVp technique in breast imaging?

High absorption of low energy x-rays in the breast, contributing to patient dose Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of compression in mammography?

To bring the breast structure close to the image receptor and improve visibility of detail Signup and view all the answers

What is the anode heel effect in mammography?

The radiation intensity near the chest wall must be higher than that near the nipple area to allow uniform exposure of the image receptor Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of using compression in mammography?

Increased radiographic contrast Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of geometric magnification in mammography?

To produce the least amount of blurring and enhance visibility of calcifications and small breast structures Signup and view all the answers

What is the required magnification factor for magnification mammography?

1.5x and 1.8x @ 2.0x Signup and view all the answers

How does compression affect the scatter-to-primary exposure ratio?

It reduces the scatter-to-primary exposure ratio by half Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of achieving the right balance of contrast, resolution, and radiation exposure in breast imaging?

To ensure adequate image quality with the lowest absorbed dose compatible with diagnostic requirements Signup and view all the answers

What is the main benefit of using magnification in mammography?

Increase the size of the projected anatomic structures compared to the granularity of the image Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to have a broad dynamic range in breast imaging?

Due to the composition of the breast and age-dependent changes, details as fine as 50 μm must be adequately visualized Signup and view all the answers