CCD mosaic technique for large-field digital mammography

Abstract

The authors present a novel technique for large-field digital mammography. The instrument uses a mosaic of electronic digital imaging [charge coupled device (CCD)] arrays, novel area scanning, and a radiation exposure and scatter reducing mechanism. The imaging arrays are mounted on a carrier platform in a checker-board pattern mosaic. To fill in the gaps between array-active areas the platform Is repositioned three times and four X-ray exposures are made. The multiple image areas are then recombined by a digital computer to produce a composite image of the entire region. To reduce X-ray scatter and exposure, a lead aperture plate is interposed between X-ray source and patient. The aperture plate has a mosaic of square holes in alignment with the imaging array pattern and the plate is repositioned in synchronism with the carrier platform. The authors discuss proof-of-concept testing demonstrating technical feasibility of their approach. The instrument should be suitable for incorporation into standard mammography units. Unique features of the new technique are: large field coverage (18x24 cm); high spatial resolution (14-17 lp/mm); scatter rejection; and excellent contrast characteristics and lesion detectability under clinical conditions.