Super-Resolution in Digital Breast Tomosynthesis: Limitations of the Conventional System Design and Strategies for Optimization

Our previous work explored the use of super-resolution as a way to improve the visibility of calcifications in digital breast tomosynthesis. This paper demonstrates that there are anisotropies in super-resolution throughout the reconstruction, and investigates new motion paths for the x-ray tube to suppress these anisotropies. We used a theoretical model of a sinusoidal test object to demonstrate the existence of the anisotropies. In addition, high-frequency test objects were simulated with virtual clinical trial (VCT) software developed for breast imaging. The simulated objects include a lead bar pattern phantom as well as punctate calcifications in a breast-like background. In a conventional acquisition geometry in which the source motion is directed laterally, we found that super-resolution is not achievable if the frequency is oriented in the perpendicular direction (posteroanteriorly). Also, there are positions, corresponding to various slices above the breast support, at which super-resolution is inherently not achievable. The existence of these anisotropies was validated with VCT simulations. At locations predicted by theoretical modeling, the bar pattern phantom showed aliasing, and the spacing between individual calcifications was not properly resolved. To show that super-resolution can be optimized by re-designing the acquisition geometry, we applied our theoretical model to the analysis of new motion paths for the x-ray tube; specifically, motions with more degrees of freedom and with more rapid pulsing (submillimeter spacing) between source positions. These two strategies can be used in combination to suppress the anisotropies in super-resolution.