The quality of conventional mammograms is limited in contrast by the large fraction of scattered photons and the low inherent contrast of the tissues of the breast, and in resolution by geometric unsharpness determined by finite x-ray focal spot size. Better system resolution and contrast will allow earlier and more reliable diagnosis of malignancies, with a resulting reduction in mortality. Breast cancer is currently the leading cause of non-preventable cancer death in American women. Kumakhov capillary optics, small bundles of hollow capillary tubes, enable the manipulation of x-rays in ways which were not previously possible. The use of Kumakhov capillary optics in place of conventional scatter-reduction grids would increase scatter rejection, and increase the transmission of primary photons, and thus reducing patient dose. They would often greatly reduce the problem of geometric unsharpness, and therefore increase system resolution and enable the use of primary digital detectors. During Phase I, extensive calculations and measurements of the performance of Kumakhov capillary optics will be performed at photon energies and in geometries appropriate for mammographic systems. The goal of Phase I is an optimized preliminary design of a Kumakhov capillary optical system for mammography.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase I (R43)
Project #
1R43CA058146-01
Application #
3493228
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (SSS (B9))
Project Start
1992-08-01
Project End
1993-01-31
Budget Start
1992-08-01
Budget End
1993-01-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1992
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
X-Ray Optical Systems, Inc.
Department
Type
DUNS #
780681938
City
East Greenbush
State
NY
Country
United States
Zip Code
12186
Abreu, C C; Kruger, D G; MacDonald, C A et al. (1995) Measurements of capillary x-ray optics with potential for use in mammographic imaging. Med Phys 22:1793-801
Tompkins, P A; Abreu, C C; Carroll, F E et al. (1994) Use of capillary optics as a beam intensifier for a Compton x-ray source. Med Phys 21:1777-84