Handel E. Reynolds

Sonography of the breast

Quality mammography remains the primary modality used to image the breast. Sonography currently is the most useful adjunctive technique to mammography, having roles in differentiating cystic from solid masses and in guiding interventional procedures. This article reviews these and other indications for breast ultrasound studies, including evaluation of palpable masses not visible in radiographically dense breasts, masses not completely evaluable with mammography, young patients especially susceptible to radiation damage, and abscesses. Ultrasound interpretation of cysts and solid masses are discussed, as are the relative disadvantages of ultrasound as a breast cancer screening tool.

Thermoacoustic CT: imaging principles

We have developed instrumentation for measuring the tissue- absorption properties of radio waves in the human body using thermoacoustic interactions. The imaging principles upon which this instrumentation is based are applicable to other irradiation sources, such as visible and IR. We present the imaging reconstruction methodology that we have developed for mapping radiation absorption pattern sin 3D. Both simulated and experimental data are used to illustrate imaging principles.

Comparison of Mammography, Sonography, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Detection of Silicone-Gel Breast Implant Rupture

Silicone-gel breast implant rupture is difficult to diagnose preoperatively. A variety of radiological methods have been used for diagnosis. This study prospectively compares film-screen mammography, high-resolution sonography, and magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of implant rupture using predetermined diagnostic criteria. Thirteen patients (24 implants) underwent film-screen mammography, sonography, and magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate the integrity of their implants. All patients subsequently underwent surgical removal of the implants. Preoperatively, the integrity of each implant was rated on a three-level classification system on the basis of one modality by a reviewer who was unaware of the results of the other two modalities. The three imaging modalities achieved the following sensitivities and specificities, respectively: mammography, 69% and 82%; sonography, 54% and 64%; MRI, 69% and 55%. Even though each modality addresses some of the limitations of the others, in this group of patients, there was no clearly superior imaging tool.

Large‐Gauge Core Needle Biopsy of the Breast

Abstract: Large‐gauge core needle biopsy (LGCNB) of the breast is gaining acceptance as a viable alternative to surgical excision. The procedure can be performed efficiently using ultrasound or stereotactic guidance. We report our experience with 137 LGCNB performed over a 40‐month period.

Thermoacoustic CT scanner for breast imaging: design considerations

We have previously developed instrumentation for performing thermoacoustic computed tomography (TCT) of the human breast using 434 MHz radio waves. Recently, we have modified our original TCT scanner design in a number of important ways. We have increased the number of ultrasound detectors and decreased their size, and we have replaced our single RF wave- guide with a phased array of eight wave-guides. These modifications have led to increased spatial resolution, increased imaging field of view, and decreased scan time. Here we report the design considerations that led to these improvements.