We aim to gather new and analyze existing phase-contrast and ttenuation-based CT data of the breast. The key focus is on developing a quantitative Breast Imaging Package (qBIP), an open-data software package that encompasses analysis algorithms, quantitative breast tissue properties, and raw and volumetric data from various BCT devices. We will establish a quantitative analysis pipeline using initial phase-contrast BCT scans of mastectomy samples and clinical attenuation-based BCT data. The derived breast tissue properties will also enable the creation of accurate breast phantoms for BCT imaging using our phase-contrast BCT systems. The analysis methods, breast tissue properties, and volumetric phantom datasets will be openly accessible in a machine-readable format through the qBIP repository, providing valuable tools for quantitative analysis and advancements in BCT while welcoming contributions from the research community.
Our research team has played a pivotal role in the advancement of phase contrast X-ray imaging using gratings interferometry (GI) for medical applications, particularly in the realm of advanced breast cancer
detection. We conducted groundbreaking in-vitro investigations using GI-enhanced mammography, which provided early indications of its clinical value. Additionally, we successfully deployed an investigational device for in-vivo 2D GI-mammography at the University Hospital in Zürich. Throughout our work, we have maintained a close and collaborative partnership with medical experts to ensure that our scientific and
technical developments directly address pertinent medical inquiries. Moreover, we have developed a functional prototype of GI-enhanced 3D breast computed tomography (GI-BCT) instrumentation, which aims to enable compression-free volumetric measurements of the breast with the patient in a prone position, although it is not yet fully compliant with all relevant standards.
