Out-licensing

Development of a Breast CT Scanner for Early Cancer Detection

Introduction/Background

Computed tomography (CT) imaging is clearly recognised as superior to traditional x-ray imaging. However, x-rays are still the standard in mammography because image quality and radiation dose have been difficult obstacles to the adoption of CT for breast imaging. In addition, mammographers have been trained to analyse the x-ray images produced in a mammogram, and could potentially resist new technologies that propose dramatic changes in the type of images that must be analysed.

Aims/Hypothesis

We aim to develop new devices and methods to overcome all of these hurdles.

Research

A breast CT device has been constructed that is tailored specifically for breast cancer screening and diagnosis. With the patient lying prone on a table, the patient's breast hangs in a pendulant position through an opening in the table. The scanning mechanism consists of an x-ray emitter and a detector that are located on opposite ends of a rotating gantry that is suspended just below the table on which the patient is resting. This device is capable of gathering CT images of a patient's breast without delivering any radiation to the thoracic cavity.

CT data is typically presented in a 3-dimensional manner. Software has been developed to better optimise comparison of the 3-D information with a traditional, 2-D mammogram. Compressing the 3-D information from a breast CT into a 2-dimentional image requires inventive computer algorithms that compensate for differences in imaging technology. In addition, volume breast CT data can be mathematically manipulated to simulate the image of a compressed breast.

The CT image data generated by this invention can be further used to accurately guide needle-core biopsy using computer-controlled robotic technology, analyse the density of the breast to correlate with risk and create high-resolution CT images of small regions allowing further non-invasive analysis.

A phase 2 clinical trial is underway to determine the efficacy with which this device can detect tumours. It is expected that the study will be completed in 2007.

Conclusion

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have invented new devices and methods for early breast cancer detection through CT imaging. These inventions enable better diagnosis and evaluation of breast tumours than current methods, and make possible new methods for delivering therapy to breast tumours.

Relevance/Opportunity

Current portfolio consists of 1 patent application. More inventions are expected as full-scale feasibility is demonstrated. Please enquire if you are interested in forming licensing or codevelopment partnerships quoting reference no. 2005-543.

Phase II