Combined Analysis of Breast Morphometry, Compression and Volumetric Breast Density: Valuable Input to Improve Mammography Screening Using International Bench Marking

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to select parameters from a combined analysis of breast compression, breast morphometry and volumetric breast density, telling about the overall quality of breast positioning, and to apply these investigations on a Moroccan population at the start of new breast cancer screening activities. The study found that compression force in mammography varies greatly and has no specific limit. The researchers attempted to find correlations between compression force and mammographic factors to establish a range of values for standardized compression in mammography.Material and Methods: The study was carried out in a university hospital, a candidate screening center, provided with new technology equipment, qualified staff and doctors of different specialties. Image acquisition was procured on a FFDM Siemens Inspiration system for 250 patients in diagnostic mammography and all patients’ information was collected. The data about dose, the compression force and the thickness of the compressed breast were obtained directly from the DICOM header information, applying Volpara Density software.Results: The results show a correlation between compression force and breast density. The volume of breast tissue compared to the total volume of the breast (VBD) decreased with increasing compressed breast thickness (CBT) and age. The mean VBD was 9.3% ± 6%, the compression force was 71±15 N and the CBT was 53±11 mm.Conclusion: The global analysis and comparison of mammographic parameters showed good similarity between Moroccan and the previous studies population. The mammographic techniques can therefore be used to Moroccan screening programs.

Keywords

• mammographies
• digital mammography
• mammographic breast density