Abstract: An imaging method and apparatus is described in which distances between a source and an object are changed and projection images are generated at each of the different distances.

Abstract: A peripheral equalization (PE) method and apparatus for compensating for thickness reduction in outer edges of the breast in a mammogram (i.e. a two-dimensional image) while keeping the central area substantially unchanged. The PE method and apparatus can also be applied to three dimensional (tomosynthesis) images of a breast. The peripheral equalization is achieved by segmenting the image of the breast into at least two regions and using a multi-threshold technique to process the data in at least one of the two regions.

Abstract: A measurement system is presented. The measurement system includes a source and a detector located a selected distance from the source with the source and the detector movable about a point, an axis or about a plane located proximate the detector.

Abstract: An imaging method and apparatus is described in which distances between a source and an object are changed and projection images are generated at each of the different distances.

Abstract: A system for three-dimensional tomosynthesis imaging of a target element is provided having an image acquisition element and a processor. The image acquisition element obtains a plurality of images of the target element from a plurality of angles and includes a radiation source that is positionable at a plurality of angles with respect to the target element and a radiation detector. The radiation detector is positioned so as to detect radiation emitted by the radiation source passing through the target element and determine a plurality of attenuation values for radiation passing through the target element to establish a radiation absorbance projection image of the target element for a particular radiation source angle. The processor is configured to apply an iterative reconstruction algorithm to the radiation absorbance projection images of the target element obtained from a plurality of radiation source angles to generate a three-dimensional reconstruction of the target element.

Abstract: A system for three-dimensional tomosynthesis imaging of a target element includes an image acquisition element and a processor. The image acquisition element obtains a plurality of images of the target element from a plurality of angles and includes a radiation source that is positionable at a plurality of angles with respect to the target element and a radiation detector. The radiation detector is positioned so as to detect radiation emitted by the radiation source passing through the target element and determine a plurality of attenuation values for radiation passing through the target element to establish a radiation absorbance projection image of the target element for a particular radiation source angle. The processor is configured to apply an iterative reconstruction algorithm to the radiation absorbance projection images of the target element obtained from a plurality of radiation source angles to generate a three-dimensional reconstruction of the target element.

Abstract: A measurement system is presented. The measurement system includes a source and a detector located a selected distance from the source with the source and the detector movable about a point, an axis or about a plane located proximate the detector.

Abstract: The invention includes both systems and methods for tomosynthesis x-ray imaging. An x-ray source is moved at various positions in an arc around an object, e.g., a breast, to illuminate a stationary digital detector (or its equivalent) placed at an image plane behind the object. A digital image data processor collects data from the detector and a motion controller moves the source around the object. As the source moves along the arc, the detector generates, for a succession of points along the arc, a corresponding succession of image data sets, each set being representative of the intensity of x-rays incident on the detector for the then current position of the source. The image data processor is responsive to the image data sets to generate an output image signal representative of the x-ray absorption of points within the object region.

Abstract: An improved tissue imaging system is provided, in which tissue can be sheared without direct manual manipulation, so that different perspective images of the tissue can be determined, preferably in a single compression cycle. In one aspect of the invention, a traction system is provided, comprising at least a layer of a radiolucent material dimensioned and constructed such that the layer can pass between tissue and a surface of a tissue imaging device. The radiolucent material has sufficient tensile strength that the layer can slide without tearing against the surface of the tissue imaging device when tension is exerted on the layer, the sliding resulting in movement of the tissue relative to the surface of the tissue imaging device. A method of moving tissue relative to at least one surface of a tissue imaging device is also provided.

Abstract: A breast compression device is disclosed for use in a mammography system. A paddle support frame is provided which is slidably connected to a system arm of the mammography system. The paddle support frame is located between the x-ray tube and the detector of the mammography system. A compression paddle is pivotally connected within the support frame by a pivot connection. The pivot connection is located on a chest wall side of the support frame. The chest wall side is opposite the system arm. The compression paddle is substantially horizontal to the detector and is rotatable around the pivot connection. The compression paddle may include a breast portion which is substantially parallel to the detector and a chest wall portion which is substantially vertical to the detector. The compression paddle may also have a contoured shape where the chest wall portion is angled away from the system arm and the breast portion is contoured to mimic the contours of the breast.

Abstract: A method for locating a lesion within a tissue mass, includes steps of measuring a selected parameter at two or more points in at least one path through the tissue mass, the measure of the selected parameter in a lesion being different from that in normal tissue. Also, apparatus for measuring a tissue parameter at two or more points in at least one path through the tissue mass includes an insertion needle, distally sharpened and made sufficiently rigid so that it can be inserted distal end foremost into the tissue mass along the path, and, insertible with the needle, a sensor capable of prodding a measure of the tissue parameter at a point in the tissue mass along the path. Where the parameter is selected as one that has a measure different in a lesion type, the apparatus can be used in carrying out the method, whereby a measure at a point in the tissue mass of the selected tissue parameter provided by the sensor indicates that the point is within a lesion.

Abstract: A stabilized aspiration biopsy needle assembly includes an introducing needle adapted to be inserted percutaneously into a human or veterinary body and advanced to the target tissue, an elongated, generally trough-shaped trocar member adapted for assembly with the introducing needle and having its distal tip extending beyond the distal tip of the introducing needle to stabilize the distal end of the introducing needle while maintaining a lumen during subsequent introduction of an aspiration needle through the introducing needle, and manipulation of the aspiration needle during aspiration procedures.

Abstract: Disclosed is a breast compression assembly for an mammography apparatus and a breast compression plate for use in such apparatus. The assembly includes a first compression plate having a first compression surface extending from an input edge thereof and a second compression plate having a second compression surface extending from an input edge thereof. At least one of the compression plates includes an associated ridge member affixed to its input edge. The ridge member extends beyond the surface of the associated compression plate in the direction substantially perpendicular to the compression surface of the plate. The device further includes means for positioning the first and second compression plates, and means for selectively controlling the separation between the compression surfaces of the plates along a reference axis substantially perpendicular to the compression surfaces of the plates.