Right and left breast volume and volume distribution comparisons in normal and tumor-containing breasts.

A measurement technique involving the use of close-range stereophotogrammetry has been developed for the study of breast volume and volume distribution (shape) comparison. This biostereometric method has been shown to be able to measure volume to within 0.63% of that determined by water displacement. This study describes the rapid and non-invasive data acquisition methodology as well as the mathematical algorithms used to determine breast volume. Additionally, the paper discusses the application of this process to documenting the presence or absence of total volume and volume distribution differences existing in normal breasts and those containing benign and malignant tumors.