[3D reconstruction of microcalcification clusters].

PURPOSE

A characterization of the geometrical or morphological aspect of microcalcifications is not sufficient to confirm a diagnosis of cancer. On the other hand, it seems that the shape of the cluster is a pertinent and helpful criterion for diagnosis. The aim of our study is to work out a method for 3D reconstructions of clusters of microcalcifications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After having tested different algorithms for extracting microcalcifications, we have developed a method of 3D reconstructions of the shape of the cluster from three radiographs. The technique, available using a standard mammography unit, consists of three principal steps

RESULTS

The technique has been tested with two simple tridimensional phantoms and has given results with sufficient precision for possible clinical use.

CONCLUSION

We plan now to apply the method in vivo with adaptation on a dedicated mammographic stereotactic unit with digital acquisition.