Quantifiable, Comparable, Low X-ray Dose Mammograms - Isis Project No 4223
A new method for producing comparable, quantifiable results in mammography, which reduces patient x-ray doses and corrects scatter, allowing improved or automated diagnosis and computerised screening.
Improved Information using a new Approach
Clinical mammography is currently a qualitative technique, that relies on observation from one or more skilled people based on the recognition of particular features within an image. It is not possible to directly compare the images by computer. By contrast, this Oxford invention transforms mammography into a quantitative technique, in which comparison may be made directly between images and patients and model data for the first time.
The system also removes the contrast degrading effects of scatter, allowing the removal of the lead anti-scatter grid, and thereby lowering the otherwise potentially harmful radiation dose, which is especially important since a screening patient is likely to be healthy.
The invention is opening up the potential for a next generation of diagnostic techniques, both for radiologists and computer aided detection. The improvement in specificity and sensitivity of mammography will reduce missed cancers, false alarms and the resulting stress to patients; and further reduce economic burden by streamlining the clinical workflow. The method is also applicable to the emerging 3D market of both Tomosynthesis and Computed Tomography, and state of the art spectral x-ray detectors, such as the Medipix developed at CERN originally for use in the Large Hadron Collider, which further enhances the diagnostic capabilities of the invention.
Global Healthcare Priorities - Helping to Beat Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer and mortality of women, particularly in developed countries. The earlier the diagnosis, the better the prognosis, and this has led both to greater awareness of breast cancer and to the introduction of national screening programmes in many countries. Currently, one of the most important technologies used to detect breast cancer is mammography – an x-ray image of the breast. It is estimated that 60 million mammograms are taken annually, a number that is rising quickly, especially as mammography becomes more regularly used in Asia. The market will grow still further when 3D mammogram scanning technology moves from research to clinical use.
Patent Status
The Oxford invention is the subject of a patent application. Isis would like to talk to companies interested in developing the commercial opportunity. Please contact the Isis Project Manager.
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