Research Project
6736023
DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This Phase II SBIR application proposes to develop improved scatter reduction grids for use in both digital and film screen mammography. Breast cancer is diagnosed in over 180,000 American women each year, leading to over 40,000 deaths annually. Screening mammography is currently the best diagnostic tool for breast disease. Scattered x-ray radiation reduces contrast in all radiographic images and is particularly problematic in mammography. High contrast imaging enables early detection of abnormalities (microcalcifications or unusual masses), which may suggest the presence of a cancer. MSI has developed an innovative process for producing advanced scatter reduction grids for mammography, using a cost effective fabrication technique, and an innovative grid material. In Phase I, MSI proved technical feasibility by designing and fabricating cellular anti-scatter grids made of a dense tungsten powder / polymer composite material. Laboratory testing and analysis demonstrated imaging performance in terms of primary transmission, scatter-to-primary ratio, contrast improvement factor and Bucky factor comparable to the best commercial anti-scatter grids currently available. The Phase II program will continue to develop this innovative fabrication technology with the following primary objectives: 1. The process will be scaled up to produce full-size (18 x 24 cm) mammography grids. 2. Grid movement schemes for film and digital based systems will be investigated and optimized. 3. Stationary anti-scatter grids for use with digital detectors will be designed, fabricated, and tested. 4. Phase II anti-scatter grids will be evaluated in laboratory and clinical testing.
