Application of the Multiple Image Radiography method to breast imaging

The Multiple Image Radiography (MIR) method is new imaging modality that extends the capability of conventional absorption based radiography by adding the additional contrast mechanisms of x-ray refraction and ultra-small angle scatter. In order to design a clinically based MIR system, the MIR specific x-ray properties in breast tissue must be analyzed to determine which are diagnostically useful. Developing MIR as an imaging modality also requires developing new phantoms that incorporate x-ray refraction and ultrasmall angle scatter in addition to traditional x-ray absorption. Three breast cancer specimens were imaged using MIR to demonstrate its MIR specific x-ray properties. An uncompressed anthropomorphic breast phantom with an imbedded low absorption contrast acrylic sphere was imaged to provide a physical model of how the unique properties of MIR can be utilized to improve upon conventional mammography and illustrate how these can be used to design a clinically useful imaging system.