Mammography Techniques and Principles

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Questions and Answers

Which materials are primarily used for the anode in mammography x-ray tubes?

Molybdenum (correct)

Tungsten

Rhodium (correct)

Iron

What is the primary cause of the heel effect in X-ray tubes?

Changes in anode material composition

Differences in the thickness of the anode

Variation in voltage supplied to the cathode

Variation in X-ray intensity based on direction of emission (correct)

What is the average radiation dose for a typical mammogram with two views of each breast?

0.8 mSv

0.4 mSv (correct)

1.2 mSv

0.1 mSv

What does a 3D CT scanner primarily determine?

The exact size of objects in three-dimensional space Signup and view all the answers

What type of mammogram utilizes a digital detector?

3D digital mammogram Signup and view all the answers

Which radiologic technique helps visualize structures obscured by overlying tissues?

Tomography Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical mAs range used to generate a phantom image in mammography?

70 to 120 mAs Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of a smaller anode angle in x-ray production?

Decreases effective focal spot size Signup and view all the answers

What specific substance is commonly used to enhance clarity in CT scans?

Iodinated contrast Signup and view all the answers

What components are essential for the operation of a mammography unit?

X-ray generator, image detector, and breast compression paddle Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a PET scan in medical diagnostics?

It may assist in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Signup and view all the answers

What combination of technologies does a CT scan utilize to produce images of the body?

X-rays and computer technology Signup and view all the answers

What phenomenon causes lower field intensity towards the anode in radiology physics?

Anode heel effect Signup and view all the answers

What anatomical structure is examined using a calcaneus series x-ray?

Calcaneus Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about IV contrast in CT scans is true?

IV contrast is used to enhance visibility in CT scans. Signup and view all the answers

What historical period does the technology of tomography date back to?

Late 19th century Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Mammography Methods

Three common mammogram types are film-screen, digital, and 3D digital mammograms.

Mammography Composition

Mammogram images are created by X-rays passing through breast tissue and interacting with a digital detector.
The anode in the X-ray tube used for mammography is made of molybdenum or rhodium, not tungsten, which is used in general X-ray tubes.

Mammography kVp and mAs

Statistical analysis of imaging performance characteristics for mammography units operated at 25 and 26 kVp was conducted.
The required mAs value at 26 kVp is approximately 15% lower than at 25 kVp.
The range of mAs used for generating a phantom image is roughly 70 to 120 mAs.

Mammography Radiation Dosage

Modern mammogram machines use low radiation doses to produce high-quality breast X-rays.
The average radiation dose for a typical mammogram (two views per breast) is approximately 0.4 millisieverts (mSv).

Mammography Components

Essential components include an X-ray generator, an image detector, and a breast compression paddle.
The generator and detector are set at a fixed distance and oriented orthogonally.
The entire unit can be rotated to capture the necessary mammographic views.

Calcaneus X-ray (Heel X-ray)

A calcaneus X-ray, known as a calcaneus series or calcaneus radiograph, is a set of two X-rays of the calcaneus (heel bone).

Anode Heel Effect

The anode heel effect is a decrease in X-ray field intensity toward the anode in X-ray tubes.
This is due to lower X-ray emissions at angles perpendicular to the electron beam and higher absorption at the anode end.
Reduced X-ray fluence and higher mean radiation energy occur in the anode direction.
This variation in intensity is because of how electrons strike the anode target at varying angles.

Anode Angle

The anode angle is the angle between the vertical and the target surface in X-ray tubes.
Most X-ray tubes have an anode angle of 12-15 degrees.
A smaller angle results in a smaller effective focal spot.
Not every part of the anode is involved in X-ray production.

Tomography (3D Imaging)

"3D CT Scanner" is an abbreviation for Computed Tomography 3D Scanner, a system using X-rays to define 3D object size.
Computed tomography is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce images of the inside of the body.
Tomography images are used to show bones, muscles, fat, organs, and blood vessels.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan

A positron emission tomography scan is also known as a PET scan.
PET scans are often used in cancer treatment.
PET scans can be combined with CT scans (PET-CT scans).

CT Scan Contrast Agent

Radiologists use iodine-based contrast medium (ICCM) to enhance CT images for accurate diagnosis.
Certain tests, like CT angiograms, require ICCM.

Tomography as a Radiology Technique

Tomography is a radiologic technique to create clear X-ray images of deep internal structures.
By focusing on a specific plane within the body, it helps visualize structures obscured by overlying organs and soft tissues.

Contrast for Tomography

Types of contrast include intravenous (IV), oral (PO), and rectal (PR).
IV contrast can either be gadolinium for MRI or iodine-based contrast for CT.
PO contrast for ER and inpatient CT scans is dilute iodinated contrast similar to IV CT contrast.

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Description

This quiz covers essential aspects of mammography, including different types of mammograms, their composition, parameters like kVp and mAs, and radiation dosage. Test your knowledge on how these techniques impact breast imaging quality and safety.