Optimization of Dedicated Scintimammography Procedure Using Detector Prototypes and Compressible Phantoms

Results are presented on the optimization of the design and use of dedicated compact scintimammography gamma cameras. Prototype imagers with a field-of-view (FOV) of 5 cm x 5 cm, 10 cm x 10 cm and 15 cm x 20 cm were used in either a dual modality mode as an adjunct technique to digital x-ray mammography imagers or as stand-alone instruments such as dedicated breast SPECT and planar imagers. Experimental data was acquired to select the best imaging modality (SPECT or planar) to detect small lesions using Tc99m radio-labeled pharmaceuticals. In addition, studies were preformed to optimize the imaging geometry. Results suggest that the preferred imaging geometry is planar imaging with two opposing detector heads while the breast is under compression, however further study of the dedicated breast SPECT is warranted