Multi-modal, multi-parametric automatic breast ultrasound scanner

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The automated breast ultrasound system (ABUS) system from Ultrasonix Medical Corp (Richmond, BC) is a specialized scanner that can acquire operator-independent three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound images of the entire breast in a few minutes. During the examination, the patient lies face down on a bed that has a dome in which the examined breast fits. A 3D ultrasound image is acquired automatically by rotating an ultrasound transducer around the dome. The parameters of the image acquisition, such as the transducer rotation steps, depth of imaging, imaging type - conventional B-mode or Doppler - as used in the clinic, can be selected. In addition, unprocessed ultrasound echo data can be collected that enabling the design of specific imaging method.Under this grant, we propose to develop two additional imaging methods based on the ultrasound echo data: quantitative elastography, which will measure breast elasticity, thus providing an automated, objective way of finding an characterizing breast lumps, and photoacoustic imaging, which will be used to determine the regions of higher blood concentration in the breast, as well as the regions of lower oxygen concentration. In addition, we propose to combine existing imaging techniques in a single registered data set that will allow the development of computer-based classification techniques that will be able to accurately detect cancer. To date, there is a single ABUS system in use outside Ultrasonix, and its use is for clinical research using conventional ultrasound imaging. Our work will address unique technical challenges that will lead to alternative imaging techniques for breast cancer screening.