In-Line Phase Contrast Mammography, Phase Contrast Digital Breast Tomosynthesis, and Phase Contrast Breast Computed Tomography With a Dedicated CT Scanner and a Microfocus X-Ray Tube: Experimental Phantom Study

We performed laboratory investigations of the image quality for 2-D [digital mammography (DM)] and 3-D [digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) and computed tomography (CT)] in-line phase contrast imaging dedicated to the breast. We employed the cone-beam, microfocus CT scanner developed in-house. Planar imaging tests were carried out with BR50/50 and polymethylmethacrylate test objects, at tube voltages of 60 kV, 80 kV, and 100 kV. CT volume images,...