High-resolution, low-dose 3D breast CT for breast screening
Towards screening with high-resolution, low-dose, dedicated breast CT
This project is developing a gentle, 3D breast CT scan that aims to give clearer images at a radiation dose similar to mammograms for people who get breast cancer screening.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11175456 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work builds on earlier prototypes to create a dedicated breast CT scanner that takes near-isotropic 3D images without compressing the breast. The team improved detector design and image reconstruction to reduce noise and cover the chest wall better while keeping radiation doses close to standard mammograms. After technical development, they plan a multi-reader, multi-case imaging study where radiologists compare these 3D CT images to conventional images. The goal is to see whether the new images help clinicians spot findings more clearly during screening.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults who are due for routine breast cancer screening (people with breasts, including those at average or increased risk) would be the likely candidates for participation.
Not a fit: This approach may not be appropriate for pregnant people or those who cannot undergo CT imaging, and people with conditions that preclude breast imaging may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could make screening more comfortable and clearer, potentially improving detection while keeping radiation low.
How similar studies have performed: Early pilot work showed excellent chest-wall visualization and radiation dose similar to digital mammography, but larger reader-validation studies are still needed.
Where this research is happening
Tucson, United States
- University of Arizona — Tucson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vedantham, Srinivasan — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Vedantham, Srinivasan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.