WO2018091393A1 - Lateral fixation for lateral breast biopsy in breast mammography/tomosynthesis - Google Patents

Lateral fixation for lateral breast biopsy in breast mammography/tomosynthesis Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018091393A1
WO2018091393A1 PCT/EP2017/079004 EP2017079004W WO2018091393A1 WO 2018091393 A1 WO2018091393 A1 WO 2018091393A1 EP 2017079004 W EP2017079004 W EP 2017079004W WO 2018091393 A1 WO2018091393 A1 WO 2018091393A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
breast
compression
lateral
paddle
unit
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2017/079004
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Frank Bergner
Klaus Erhard
Thomas Buelow
Harald Sepp HEESE
Original Assignee
Koninklijke Philips N.V.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Koninklijke Philips N.V. filed Critical Koninklijke Philips N.V.
Publication of WO2018091393A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018091393A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B90/00—Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups A61B1/00 - A61B50/00, e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
    • A61B90/50—Supports for surgical instruments, e.g. articulated arms
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B10/00—Other methods or instruments for diagnosis, e.g. instruments for taking a cell sample, for biopsy, for vaccination diagnosis; Sex determination; Ovulation-period determination; Throat striking implements
    • A61B10/02—Instruments for taking cell samples or for biopsy
    • A61B10/0233—Pointed or sharp biopsy instruments
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B2017/00743—Type of operation; Specification of treatment sites
    • A61B2017/00796—Breast surgery
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/34—Trocars; Puncturing needles
    • A61B17/3403—Needle locating or guiding means
    • A61B2017/3405—Needle locating or guiding means using mechanical guide means

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a compression device for use in breast biopsy and a mammography device.
  • a biopsy can be performed with X-ray guidance. That means, a tissue sample is taken by inserting a needle into the compressed breast, whereby the position of the needle is controlled by means of the X-ray imaging unit. For safety and accuracy reasons, the biopsy needle is typically inserted from a direction parallel to the chest wall.
  • the needle In the lateral biopsy approach the needle is inserted perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction of compression, i.e. from between the compression paddles where the breast is only partly compressed. Hence, the needle is laterally inserted in a spot where the breast is not properly fixated. Upon insertion of the biopsy needle, the breast tissue might move. This might impede the correct positioning of the biopsy needle. In addition, the insertion length of the biopsy needle into the breast may be longer than necessary.
  • WOO 1/19233 A2 discloses methods and systems for stability of a human breast during biopsy and surgical procedures.
  • W096/12439 discloses a multi-element probe for providing an electrical connection to a tissue surface.
  • US2013/0303895A1 discloses a system and method for performing an image- guided biopsy of a target mass of a volume of tissue.
  • the inventors of the present invention have found that for lateral breast biopsies, there is a need to better fixate the breast, to avoid movements of breast tissue when inserting the biopsy needle into the breast, and to reduce the insertion length of the biopsy needle into the breast.
  • the object of the present invention may be seen as to facilitate an improved lateral breast biopsy.
  • the described embodiments similarly pertain to compression device, the method for taking a breast biopsy and the mammography device. Synergetic effects may arise from different combinations of the embodiments although they might not be described in detail.
  • a breast compression device comprising a first breast compression unit configured for compressing the breast in the cranial-caudal direction and a second breast compression unit configured for compressing the breast in a lateral direction.
  • the second breast compression unit comprises at least one opening for inserting a biopsy needle for taking breast biopsies from the lateral direction.
  • the first breast compression unit comprises a top compression paddle and a breast support
  • the second breast compression unit comprises a lateral compression paddle.
  • the top compression paddle and the breast support are configured for guiding the lateral compression paddle.
  • the present invention discloses a breast compression device with two separate breast compression units, where the first breast compression unit compresses the breast in the cranial-caudal direction, and the second breast compression unit compresses the breast in the lateral direction.
  • the two units can be located in one housing, but they may also be embodied as separated components.
  • the breast compression device may be attached to a breast tomosynthesis/mammography device, which may provide X-ray images of the compressed breast. If such images show lesions or other peculiar regions inside the breast, it may be desirable to analyze tissue samples from these regions.
  • the tissue samples can be provided by means of biopsies. Thereby, the position of the biopsy needle can be controlled by means of the imaging device.
  • the lateral direction is perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction, as e.g. shown in the exemplary embodiments of Figs. 1 and 3.
  • the two directions of compression of the first and second breast compression units may not be perpendicular.
  • the direction of compression of the second breast compression unit may be inclined, i.e., different or slightly different from being perpendicular.
  • the direction of compression of the second breast compression unit should always have a non-zero component that is perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction of compression of the first breast compression unit to ensure the fixation of the breast.
  • the direction of biopsy needle insertion may be inclined.
  • the direction of needle insertion is perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction in some embodiments and is not perpendicular to the cranial- caudal direction in some other embodiments.
  • the compression in the cranial-caudal direction is performed by means of the top compression paddle and the breast support
  • the compression in the lateral direction is performed by means of the lateral compression paddle.
  • the lateral compression paddle may be implemented as a plate with one or a plurality of holes, the holes being large enough so that the biopsy needle can pass through them.
  • the lateral compression paddle is configured to compress the breast from the side in order to avoid movements of breast tissue in the lateral direction when inserting the biopsy needle from the lateral direction into the breast.
  • the second breast compression unit comprises a control unit, wherein the control unit is configured for positioning the lateral compression paddle relative to the top compression paddle and relative to the breast support in cranial-caudal direction and/or in lateral direction.
  • the positioning may be achieved by controlling actuators and/or motors of the compression unit which move the paddle accordingly.
  • the lateral compression paddle may be moved laterally to the breast until it applies a compression to its side.
  • One or more sensors may be comprised to measure whether the necessary compression is achieved.
  • the lateral compression of the breast prevents lateral movements of breast tissue when taking lateral breast biopsies. Furthermore, the lateral compression may result in a reduced insertion length of the biopsy needle into the breast when taking lateral breast biopsies.
  • the motion of the lateral compression paddle is steered by the control unit.
  • the lateral compression paddle may be mounted onto the control unit, which steers the motion of the lateral compression paddle for example with a guide rail and/or a screw thread.
  • the control unit supports not only lateral motions of the lateral compression paddle, but also motions in cranial-caudal direction. The possibility to move the lateral compression paddle in the cranial-caudal direction allows to adapt the compression device for example to different sizes of the compressed breast.
  • control unit is rigidly mounted at the breast support.
  • Mounting the control unit at the breast support has the advantage that adjusting the height of the breast support directly results in an adjustment of the height of the control unit and the attached lateral compression paddle. This is beneficial, since the lateral compression paddle should always be positioned somewhat above the breast support.
  • the breast support and the lateral compression paddle need to be positioned independently.
  • top compression paddle and the breast support as guidance can provide an improved stability of the lateral compression paddle.
  • this guidance of the lateral compression paddle by the top compression paddle and the breast support typically requires a size-adjustable lateral compression paddle. This can be facilitated for example by combining rigid and flexible elements in the set-up of the lateral compression paddle. Details about such embodiments can be gathered from e.g. Figs. 3 to 5.
  • a size-adjustable lateral compression paddle is also beneficial when the top compression paddle and/or the breast support have a curved design so that the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support varies in the lateral direction.
  • the lateral compression paddle is connected to the top compression paddle and the breast support by means of bearings.
  • the bearings may be inserted into grooves at the top compression paddle and the breast support and may facilitate smooth motions of the lateral compression paddle. Since the lateral compression paddle is connected to the top compression paddle and the breast support, and since the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support can vary for example when compressing the first compression unit, the lateral compression paddle is preferably size-adjustable. In other words, the lateral compression paddle is preferably configured so that it can adjust to changes in the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support.
  • the second breast compression unit comprises a lateral compression paddle, which is size-adjustable.
  • Size-adjustable lateral compression paddles provide a number of advantages as they can adjust to changes in the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support. This is important in particular when the lateral compression paddle is connected to the top compression paddle and the breast support. The distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support naturally changes when the first breast compression unit is compressed or released. In addition, the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support changes in the lateral direction when the top compression paddle and/or the breast support have a curved design, which is the case for example in the Philips MicroDose product series.
  • Size-adjustable lateral compression paddles can be positioned readily before compressing the breast in the cranial-caudal direction as the lateral compression paddle can adapt its size during the compression of the first breast compression unit.
  • size- adjustable lateral compression paddle can also be inserted after applying the compression in the cranial-caudal direction of the first breast compression unit. For example, a pre-load may be applied on the compressible elements of the size-adjustable lateral compression paddle prior to its insertion. This initial tension can then be released such that the lateral
  • compression paddle extends to the actual displacement between the top compression paddle and the breast support. Bearings on the lateral compression paddle may then facilitate smooth motions of the lateral compression paddle in the lateral direction to apply a lateral compression.
  • the lateral compression paddle comprises at least one rigid element and at least one compressible element, wherein at least one of the rigid elements comprises an opening for inserting a biopsy needle for taking breast biopsies from the lateral direction.
  • Rigid and compressible elements can be combined to realize in particular a size-adjustable lateral compression paddle.
  • size-adjustable lateral compression paddles are preferable due to their ability to adapt to changes in the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support.
  • the position of the at least one opening on the lateral compression paddle can be made adjustable.
  • the at least one opening may be realized preferably in a rigid element, but may alternatively be realized in a compressible element or as a gap between such elements.
  • the second breast compression unit further comprises a lateral spot compression unit for causing a spot compression at a target location of the breast, wherein the lateral spot compression unit is a tube-shaped object for guiding a biopsy needle into the breast, and wherein the lateral spot compression unit provides the opening for inserting the biopsy needle.
  • the lateral spot compression unit can be a separate component or can be a part of the lateral compression paddle.
  • the lateral spot compression unit can be passed through one of the openings in the second breast compression unit. Then, a biopsy can be taken by passing the biopsy needle through the lateral spot compression unit.
  • the lateral spot compression unit serves as a needle guidance channel.
  • the lateral spot compression unit applies a compression to a
  • the lateral compression paddle applies a compression to a large part of the lateral surface of the breast.
  • the lateral spot compression unit applies a compression to a spot on the lateral surface of the breast.
  • the lateral spot compression unit may decrease the insertion length of the biopsy needle to the target biopsy region inside the breast, as can be gathered from e.g. the embodiment shown in Fig. 3.
  • the insertion length is defined as the length from the distal end of the needle to the point where the biopsy needle enters the breast.
  • the lateral spot compression unit has a curved surface at a first end.
  • the lateral spot compression unit is configured to apply a compression to a substantially smaller surface area of the breast as compared to the lateral compression paddle. Moreover, the pressure applied to the surface of the breast by the lateral spot compression unit may be substantially stronger as compared to the pressure applied by the lateral compression paddle.
  • the tip of the lateral spot compression unit is designed in this embodiment in a smoothed manner to decrease the patient discomfort during spot
  • the opening of the lateral spot compression unit at the first end comprises a removable cover, and wherein the cover is removable from the lateral spot compression unit while the lateral spot compression unit is in contact with the breast.
  • the opening at the smoothed tip of the lateral compression unit can be smoothly covered and locked. This can be achieved, for example, by means of a screw.
  • the cover can be removed prior to the final needle biopsy. Hence, once the cover to the lateral spot compression unit has been removed, the biopsy needle can be passed through the lateral spot compression unit to take a sample tissue from the breast.
  • a method for taking a breast biopsy comprises the step of compressing the breast in the cranial-caudal direction using a first breast compression unit, compressing the breast in a lateral direction using a second breast compression unit, inserting a biopsy needle into the breast through an opening within the second breast compression unit, and taking a biopsy with the biopsy needle from the lateral direction.
  • the compression of the breast in cranial-caudal direction may be performed by means of a top compression paddle and a breast support.
  • the compression of the breast in the lateral direction may be performed by means of a lateral compression paddle.
  • the breast may first be compressed in the cranial-caudal direction and subsequently in the lateral direction.
  • the breast may be suppressed in the lateral direction before suppressing it in the cranial-caudal direction.
  • the compression of the breast in cranial-caudal and lateral directions prevents movements of breast tissue when inserting a biopsy needle into the breast. In the lateral biopsy approach, the biopsy needle is inserted from the lateral direction into the breast through one of the openings in the lateral compression paddle.
  • the method for taking a breast biopsy may additionally comprise compressing the breast with a spot compression unit in the lateral direction, thereby reducing an insertion length of the biopsy needle into the breast in the lateral direction, wherein the spot compression unit is part of the second breast compression unit.
  • the spot compression unit is part of the second breast compression unit, which may additionally comprise a lateral compression paddle.
  • the spot compression unit is passed through one of the openings in the second breast compression unit and applies a compression to a relatively small area of the breast, i.e. a spot on the lateral surface of the breast.
  • a lateral biopsy can be performed by passing a biopsy needle through this spot compression unit.
  • the spot compression unit serves as a guidance channel for the biopsy needle.
  • the spot compression allows to reduce the insertion length of the biopsy needle into the breast, where the insertion length is defined as the length from the distal end of the biopsy needle until the point where the biopsy needle enters into the breast.
  • a mammography device comprising a compression unit as described herein and an imaging unit.
  • the imaging unit can be based on e.g. X-ray imaging.
  • the X-ray imaging may be performed in cranial-caudal direction providing a good resolution in the lateral direction.
  • the breast may be compressed in the cranial-caudal direction to broaden its shape and to better exploit the lateral resolution capability of the imaging unit.
  • the compression of the breast in the cranial-caudal direction prevents movements of breast tissue in this direction.
  • the breast can also be compressed in the lateral direction by a second breast compression unit to avoid movements of breast tissue in this direction, which is relevant in particular for taking lateral breast biopsies.
  • the imaging unit can be utilized to control the insertion of the biopsy needle into the breast.
  • the lateral compression mechanism can consist of a positioning and control unit and a lateral compression paddle.
  • the size of the lateral compression paddle is either flexible or chosen by the radiologic technician according to the compressed size of the breast. It can have openings, realized for example as a regular grid of holes, in order to do the needle placement through it.
  • the lateral compression paddle can be positioned via a positioning and control unit, which can be rigidly mounted at the side of the breast support.
  • the lateral compression paddle can be adjusted via the position control device of the compression unit. In this way, the lateral compression device is moved laterally to the breast and applies a certain amount of compression to the side breast in order to prevent the possible movements and reduce the insertion length.
  • a further reduction of the insertion length can be achieved by a second spot compression tube, which can be inserted into one of the openings for a stronger local compression at the target location.
  • This additional spot compression tube is manufactured large enough to serve as a needle guidance channel and has a small opening at the tip for needle entrance into the breast.
  • Fig. 1 shows a breast compression device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, where a biopsy needle is inserted from the lateral direction into the compressed breast.
  • Fig. 2 mammography device with a second breast compression unit for compressing the breast in the lateral direction according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 3 shows a breast compression device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with a size-adjustable lateral compression paddle that is connected to the top compression paddle and the breast support by means of bearings.
  • Fig. 4 shows a breast compression device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with a lateral spot compression unit.
  • Fig. 5 shows a breast compression device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention where a biopsy needle is passed into the compressed breast through a lateral spot compression unit to take a sample from a lesion inside the breast.
  • Fig. 6 is a flow diagram and illustrates the method for taking breast biopsies according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 shows a breast compression device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the breast compression device 100 comprises a top compression paddle 104, a breast support 106, and a lateral compression paddle 102.
  • the top compression paddle 104 and the breast support 106 form a first breast compression unit for compressing the breast 112 in the cranial-caudal direction.
  • this cranial-caudal direction extends in vertical direction in Fig. 1.
  • the second breast compression unit for compressing the breast 112 in the lateral direction is realized by the lateral compression paddle 102.
  • the lateral compression paddle 102 comprises a number of openings 108.
  • a biopsy needle 110 is passed from the lateral direction through one of the openings 108 of the paddle 102 into the breast 112.
  • the compression of the breast 112 in the lateral direction by means of the lateral compression paddle 102 prevents movements of breast tissue.
  • the direction of compression of the second breast compression unit may not be perpendicular to the vertical cranial-caudal direction comprising a non-zero component in the lateral direction.
  • the direction of needle insertion may be inclined comprising a non-zero component in the lateral direction.
  • FIG. 2 shows a mammography device 224 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the mammography device comprises a breast support 206 and a second breast compression unit 220 compressing the breast in the lateral direction.
  • the second breast compression unit 220 comprises a lateral compression paddle 202, and a control unit 222 for steering the position of the lateral compression paddle.
  • the control unit 222 is mounted on the breast support 206.
  • the height of the breast support 206 also the height of the control unit 222 and the attached lateral compression paddle 202 is adjusted.
  • Figure 3 shows a breast compression device 300 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the breast 312 is compressed between a top
  • the lateral compression paddle 302 comprises several rigid elements 332, 333, and 336.
  • the rigid element 336 has an opening for inserting a biopsy needle from the lateral direction into the breast 312.
  • the lateral compression paddle 302 comprises compressible elements 334 and 335.
  • the combination of rigid and compressible elements in the lateral compression paddle 302 makes this paddle size-adjustable.
  • it may be achieved that the position of the rigid element 336 with the opening for inserting a biopsy needle into the breast is height- adjustable.
  • the adjustability of the size of the lateral compression paddle 302 is beneficial in particular since the distance between the top compression paddle 304 and the breast support 306 depends on the size of the breast and its compression level in cranial-caudal direction. It is also shown that the lateral compression paddle 302 is connected to the top compression paddle 304 and the breast support 306 by means of bearings 330 and 331. The bearings 330 and 331 may be inserted into grooves in the top compression paddle 304 and the breast support 306. Thus, the top compression paddle 304 and the breast support 306 may guide and stabilize the position of the lateral compression paddle 302. Inside the breast, a lesion 338 is depicted.
  • FIG. 4 shows a breast compression device 400 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the breast compression device 400 comprises a top compression paddle 404 and a breast support 406 for compressing the breast 412 in the cranial-caudal direction.
  • the breast compression device 400 comprises a lateral compression paddle 402 for compressing the breast 412 in the lateral direction.
  • the lateral compression paddle 402 comprises rigid and compressible elements and is connected to the top compression paddle 404 and the breast support 406 by means of bearings.
  • a lateral spot compression unit 440 is passed through the opening within the lateral compression paddle 402 to apply a spot compression from the lateral direction to the breast.
  • the tip of the lateral spot compression unit 440 that is pushed against the breast 412 is smoothed to reduce the discomfort of the patient during spot compression.
  • FIG. 5 shows a breast compression device 500 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the breast compression device 500 comprises a top compression paddle 504 and a breast support 506 for compressing the breast 512 in the cranial-caudal direction.
  • the breast compression device 500 comprises a lateral compression paddle 502 for compressing the breast 512 in the lateral direction.
  • a lesion 538 inside the breast 512 is also depicted.
  • a lateral spot compression unit 540 is passed through the opening in the lateral compression paddle 502 to apply a lateral spot compression to the breast 512.
  • a biopsy needle 510 is inserted into the breast 512 through the lateral spot compression unit 540.
  • the lateral spot compression unit 540 serves as a guidance channel for the biopsy needle 510.
  • the lateral spot compression unit 540 provides a reduced insertion length of the biopsy needle 510 to the lesion 538 inside the breast 512.
  • the insertion length is defined as the distance between the distal end of the biopsy needle and the point 550 where the biopsy needle enters into the breast.
  • Figure 6 shows a method for taking a lateral breast biopsy, wherein the method comprises the following steps.
  • the breast is compressed in the cranial-caudal direction using a first breast compression unit.
  • the breast is compressed in the lateral direction using a second breast compression unit.
  • the second breast compression unit comprises a number of openings for inserting a biopsy needle into the breast from the lateral direction.
  • a biopsy needle 610 is inserted from the lateral direction into the breast to take a tissue sample from the breast. Thereby, the compression of the breast in the lateral direction prevents movements of breast tissue in this direction.

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Abstract

In breast tomosynthesis/mammography, the breast is compressed in cranial- caudal direction and X-ray images are acquired of the compressed breast. For diagnostics, a sample of the breast can be taken with a biopsy needle using X-ray guidance. In the lateral approach, the biopsy needle is inserted perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction of breast compression. In this invention we propose a lateral compression unit, which avoids movement of the breast when inserting the needle. Furthermore, the insertion length for the needle can be reduced with a height-adjustable lateral compression paddle and a dedicated spot compression mechanism.

Description

Lateral fixation for lateral breast biopsy in breast mammography/tomosynthesis
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a compression device for use in breast biopsy and a mammography device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In breast tomosynthesis/mammography, the breast is compressed between two compression paddles and X-ray images are acquired of the compressed breast. To analyze for example a lesion inside the breast, a biopsy can be performed with X-ray guidance. That means, a tissue sample is taken by inserting a needle into the compressed breast, whereby the position of the needle is controlled by means of the X-ray imaging unit. For safety and accuracy reasons, the biopsy needle is typically inserted from a direction parallel to the chest wall.
In the lateral biopsy approach the needle is inserted perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction of compression, i.e. from between the compression paddles where the breast is only partly compressed. Hence, the needle is laterally inserted in a spot where the breast is not properly fixated. Upon insertion of the biopsy needle, the breast tissue might move. This might impede the correct positioning of the biopsy needle. In addition, the insertion length of the biopsy needle into the breast may be longer than necessary.
WOO 1/19233 A2 discloses methods and systems for stability of a human breast during biopsy and surgical procedures.
W096/12439 discloses a multi-element probe for providing an electrical connection to a tissue surface.
US2013/0303895A1 discloses a system and method for performing an image- guided biopsy of a target mass of a volume of tissue.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The inventors of the present invention have found that for lateral breast biopsies, there is a need to better fixate the breast, to avoid movements of breast tissue when inserting the biopsy needle into the breast, and to reduce the insertion length of the biopsy needle into the breast.
The object of the present invention may be seen as to facilitate an improved lateral breast biopsy.
The problem of the present invention is solved by the subject-matter of the independent claims, wherein further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims.
The described embodiments similarly pertain to compression device, the method for taking a breast biopsy and the mammography device. Synergetic effects may arise from different combinations of the embodiments although they might not be described in detail.
Further on, it shall be noted that all embodiments of the present invention concerning a method, might be carried out with the order of the steps as described, nevertheless this has not to be the only and essential order of the steps of the method. The herein presented methods can be carried out with another order of the disclosed steps without departing from the respective method embodiment, unless explicitly mentioned to the contrary hereinafter.
Technical terms are used by their common sense. If a specific meaning is conveyed to certain terms, definitions of terms will be given in the following in the context of which the terms are used.
According to the present invention, a breast compression device is presented. The breast compression device comprises a first breast compression unit configured for compressing the breast in the cranial-caudal direction and a second breast compression unit configured for compressing the breast in a lateral direction. Thereby, the second breast compression unit comprises at least one opening for inserting a biopsy needle for taking breast biopsies from the lateral direction. The first breast compression unit comprises a top compression paddle and a breast support, and the second breast compression unit comprises a lateral compression paddle. The top compression paddle and the breast support are configured for guiding the lateral compression paddle.
In other words, the present invention discloses a breast compression device with two separate breast compression units, where the first breast compression unit compresses the breast in the cranial-caudal direction, and the second breast compression unit compresses the breast in the lateral direction. The two units can be located in one housing, but they may also be embodied as separated components. The breast compression device may be attached to a breast tomosynthesis/mammography device, which may provide X-ray images of the compressed breast. If such images show lesions or other peculiar regions inside the breast, it may be desirable to analyze tissue samples from these regions. The tissue samples can be provided by means of biopsies. Thereby, the position of the biopsy needle can be controlled by means of the imaging device.
The second breast compression unit is beneficial in particular for lateral biopsies. Without the second breast compression unit, the breast would not be properly fixated in the lateral direction. Thus, when inserting the biopsy needle from the lateral direction, the breast tissue could move, which complicates the correct positioning of the biopsy needle. By compressing the breast in the lateral direction with the second breast compression unit of the present invention, the second breast compression unit confines movements of the breast in the lateral direction. The second breast compression unit therefore simplifies the accurate positioning of the biopsy needle. In addition, the second breast compression unit may reduce the insertion length of the biopsy needle into the breast. This will be explained in the context of several embodiments in more detail.
Preferably, the lateral direction is perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction, as e.g. shown in the exemplary embodiments of Figs. 1 and 3. However, in an embodiment, the two directions of compression of the first and second breast compression units may not be perpendicular. In particular, the direction of compression of the second breast compression unit may be inclined, i.e., different or slightly different from being perpendicular. However, the direction of compression of the second breast compression unit should always have a non-zero component that is perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction of compression of the first breast compression unit to ensure the fixation of the breast.
Moreover, it should be understood that even with perpendicular directions of compression of the first and second breast compression units, the direction of biopsy needle insertion may be inclined. In other words, the direction of needle insertion is perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction in some embodiments and is not perpendicular to the cranial- caudal direction in some other embodiments.
Hence, the compression in the cranial-caudal direction is performed by means of the top compression paddle and the breast support, whereas the compression in the lateral direction is performed by means of the lateral compression paddle. Thereby, it may be required to position the lateral compression paddle between the top compression paddle and the breast support. Since the displacement between the top compression paddle and the breast support depends on the size of the compressed breast and the compression level in cranial- caudal direction, the size of the lateral compression paddle can be embodied flexible so that it can be adapt to different breast sizes, or it can be embodied with a fixed size which is then chosen by the operator according to the size of the compressed breast.
The breast may first be compressed in the cranial-caudal direction by means of the top compression paddle and the breast support. Subsequently, the breast may be compressed in the lateral direction by means of the lateral compression paddle. Alternatively, compression may first be applied in the lateral direction by means of the lateral compression paddle and, subsequently, in the cranial-caudal direction by means of the top compression paddle and the breast support.
The lateral compression paddle may be implemented as a plate with one or a plurality of holes, the holes being large enough so that the biopsy needle can pass through them. The lateral compression paddle is configured to compress the breast from the side in order to avoid movements of breast tissue in the lateral direction when inserting the biopsy needle from the lateral direction into the breast.
In another exemplary embodiment, the second breast compression unit comprises a control unit, wherein the control unit is configured for positioning the lateral compression paddle relative to the top compression paddle and relative to the breast support in cranial-caudal direction and/or in lateral direction.
The positioning may be achieved by controlling actuators and/or motors of the compression unit which move the paddle accordingly.
The lateral compression paddle may be moved laterally to the breast until it applies a compression to its side. One or more sensors may be comprised to measure whether the necessary compression is achieved. The lateral compression of the breast prevents lateral movements of breast tissue when taking lateral breast biopsies. Furthermore, the lateral compression may result in a reduced insertion length of the biopsy needle into the breast when taking lateral breast biopsies. The motion of the lateral compression paddle is steered by the control unit. The lateral compression paddle may be mounted onto the control unit, which steers the motion of the lateral compression paddle for example with a guide rail and/or a screw thread. In a preferred embodiment, the control unit supports not only lateral motions of the lateral compression paddle, but also motions in cranial-caudal direction. The possibility to move the lateral compression paddle in the cranial-caudal direction allows to adapt the compression device for example to different sizes of the compressed breast.
In another exemplary embodiment, the control unit is rigidly mounted at the breast support. Mounting the control unit at the breast support has the advantage that adjusting the height of the breast support directly results in an adjustment of the height of the control unit and the attached lateral compression paddle. This is beneficial, since the lateral compression paddle should always be positioned somewhat above the breast support.
Alternatively, when mounting the control unit directly at the mammography device, the breast support and the lateral compression paddle need to be positioned independently.
Using the top compression paddle and the breast support as guidance can provide an improved stability of the lateral compression paddle. However, since the displacement between the top compression paddle and the breast support depends on the size of the breast and the compression level in cranial-caudal direction, this guidance of the lateral compression paddle by the top compression paddle and the breast support typically requires a size-adjustable lateral compression paddle. This can be facilitated for example by combining rigid and flexible elements in the set-up of the lateral compression paddle. Details about such embodiments can be gathered from e.g. Figs. 3 to 5.
It should be noted that a size-adjustable lateral compression paddle is also beneficial when the top compression paddle and/or the breast support have a curved design so that the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support varies in the lateral direction.
In another example, the lateral compression paddle is connected to the top compression paddle and the breast support by means of bearings.
The bearings may be inserted into grooves at the top compression paddle and the breast support and may facilitate smooth motions of the lateral compression paddle. Since the lateral compression paddle is connected to the top compression paddle and the breast support, and since the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support can vary for example when compressing the first compression unit, the lateral compression paddle is preferably size-adjustable. In other words, the lateral compression paddle is preferably configured so that it can adjust to changes in the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support.
In another example, the second breast compression unit comprises a lateral compression paddle, which is size-adjustable.
Size-adjustable lateral compression paddles provide a number of advantages as they can adjust to changes in the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support. This is important in particular when the lateral compression paddle is connected to the top compression paddle and the breast support. The distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support naturally changes when the first breast compression unit is compressed or released. In addition, the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support changes in the lateral direction when the top compression paddle and/or the breast support have a curved design, which is the case for example in the Philips MicroDose product series.
Size-adjustable lateral compression paddles can be positioned readily before compressing the breast in the cranial-caudal direction as the lateral compression paddle can adapt its size during the compression of the first breast compression unit. However, size- adjustable lateral compression paddle can also be inserted after applying the compression in the cranial-caudal direction of the first breast compression unit. For example, a pre-load may be applied on the compressible elements of the size-adjustable lateral compression paddle prior to its insertion. This initial tension can then be released such that the lateral
compression paddle extends to the actual displacement between the top compression paddle and the breast support. Bearings on the lateral compression paddle may then facilitate smooth motions of the lateral compression paddle in the lateral direction to apply a lateral compression.
In another exemplary embodiment, the lateral compression paddle comprises at least one rigid element and at least one compressible element, wherein at least one of the rigid elements comprises an opening for inserting a biopsy needle for taking breast biopsies from the lateral direction.
Rigid and compressible elements can be combined to realize in particular a size-adjustable lateral compression paddle. As explained above, size-adjustable lateral compression paddles are preferable due to their ability to adapt to changes in the distance between the top compression paddle and the breast support. Moreover, by combining rigid and compressible elements, the position of the at least one opening on the lateral compression paddle can be made adjustable. The at least one opening may be realized preferably in a rigid element, but may alternatively be realized in a compressible element or as a gap between such elements.
In general, a compressible element in the context of the present invention can be compressed by the compression device or during the use of the compression device such that the desired size adjustment is achieved. In contrast thereto, the rigid elements are not or substantially not deformed by applying the compression forces which shall lead to the desired size adjustment of the second breast compression unit, in particular of the lateral compression paddle. In another exemplary embodiment, the lateral direction is perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction. The second breast compression unit applies a compression force in the lateral direction, i.e., perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction.
In another exemplary embodiment, the second breast compression unit further comprises a lateral spot compression unit for causing a spot compression at a target location of the breast, wherein the lateral spot compression unit is a tube-shaped object for guiding a biopsy needle into the breast, and wherein the lateral spot compression unit provides the opening for inserting the biopsy needle.
The lateral spot compression unit can be a separate component or can be a part of the lateral compression paddle. The lateral spot compression unit can be passed through one of the openings in the second breast compression unit. Then, a biopsy can be taken by passing the biopsy needle through the lateral spot compression unit. Thus, the lateral spot compression unit serves as a needle guidance channel. As compared to the lateral
compression paddle, the lateral spot compression unit applies a compression to a
substantially smaller surface area of the breast. In particular, the lateral compression paddle applies a compression to a large part of the lateral surface of the breast. In contrast, the lateral spot compression unit applies a compression to a spot on the lateral surface of the breast. Thereby, the lateral spot compression unit may decrease the insertion length of the biopsy needle to the target biopsy region inside the breast, as can be gathered from e.g. the embodiment shown in Fig. 3. In the context of the present invention the insertion length is defined as the length from the distal end of the needle to the point where the biopsy needle enters the breast.
In another exemplary embodiment, the lateral spot compression unit has a curved surface at a first end.
The lateral spot compression unit is configured to apply a compression to a substantially smaller surface area of the breast as compared to the lateral compression paddle. Moreover, the pressure applied to the surface of the breast by the lateral spot compression unit may be substantially stronger as compared to the pressure applied by the lateral compression paddle. The tip of the lateral spot compression unit is designed in this embodiment in a smoothed manner to decrease the patient discomfort during spot
compression.
In another exemplary embodiment, the opening of the lateral spot compression unit at the first end comprises a removable cover, and wherein the cover is removable from the lateral spot compression unit while the lateral spot compression unit is in contact with the breast.
To decrease the discomfort of the patient while increasing the pressure to the breast during lateral spot compression, the opening at the smoothed tip of the lateral compression unit can be smoothly covered and locked. This can be achieved, for example, by means of a screw. The cover can be removed prior to the final needle biopsy. Hence, once the cover to the lateral spot compression unit has been removed, the biopsy needle can be passed through the lateral spot compression unit to take a sample tissue from the breast.
As an example, a method for taking a breast biopsy is presented. The method comprises the step of compressing the breast in the cranial-caudal direction using a first breast compression unit, compressing the breast in a lateral direction using a second breast compression unit, inserting a biopsy needle into the breast through an opening within the second breast compression unit, and taking a biopsy with the biopsy needle from the lateral direction.
The compression of the breast in cranial-caudal direction may be performed by means of a top compression paddle and a breast support. The compression of the breast in the lateral direction may be performed by means of a lateral compression paddle. The breast may first be compressed in the cranial-caudal direction and subsequently in the lateral direction. Alternatively, the breast may be suppressed in the lateral direction before suppressing it in the cranial-caudal direction. The compression of the breast in cranial-caudal and lateral directions prevents movements of breast tissue when inserting a biopsy needle into the breast. In the lateral biopsy approach, the biopsy needle is inserted from the lateral direction into the breast through one of the openings in the lateral compression paddle.
The method for taking a breast biopsy may additionally comprise compressing the breast with a spot compression unit in the lateral direction, thereby reducing an insertion length of the biopsy needle into the breast in the lateral direction, wherein the spot compression unit is part of the second breast compression unit.
The spot compression unit is part of the second breast compression unit, which may additionally comprise a lateral compression paddle. The spot compression unit is passed through one of the openings in the second breast compression unit and applies a compression to a relatively small area of the breast, i.e. a spot on the lateral surface of the breast. After spot compression, a lateral biopsy can be performed by passing a biopsy needle through this spot compression unit. Thus, the spot compression unit serves as a guidance channel for the biopsy needle. The spot compression allows to reduce the insertion length of the biopsy needle into the breast, where the insertion length is defined as the length from the distal end of the biopsy needle until the point where the biopsy needle enters into the breast.
According to another aspect of the present invention, a mammography device is presented comprising a compression unit as described herein and an imaging unit.
Thereby, the imaging unit can be based on e.g. X-ray imaging. The X-ray imaging may be performed in cranial-caudal direction providing a good resolution in the lateral direction. The breast may be compressed in the cranial-caudal direction to broaden its shape and to better exploit the lateral resolution capability of the imaging unit. In addition, the compression of the breast in the cranial-caudal direction prevents movements of breast tissue in this direction. The breast can also be compressed in the lateral direction by a second breast compression unit to avoid movements of breast tissue in this direction, which is relevant in particular for taking lateral breast biopsies. When taking breast biopsies, the imaging unit can be utilized to control the insertion of the biopsy needle into the breast.
It may be seen as a gist of the present invention to provide for at least one additional, lateral compression mechanism whose main goal is to fixate the breast also in the lateral direction. The lateral compression mechanism can consist of a positioning and control unit and a lateral compression paddle. The size of the lateral compression paddle is either flexible or chosen by the radiologic technician according to the compressed size of the breast. It can have openings, realized for example as a regular grid of holes, in order to do the needle placement through it. The lateral compression paddle can be positioned via a positioning and control unit, which can be rigidly mounted at the side of the breast support. After
compressing the breast in the usual way for imaging, the lateral compression paddle can be adjusted via the position control device of the compression unit. In this way, the lateral compression device is moved laterally to the breast and applies a certain amount of compression to the side breast in order to prevent the possible movements and reduce the insertion length. A further reduction of the insertion length can be achieved by a second spot compression tube, which can be inserted into one of the openings for a stronger local compression at the target location. This additional spot compression tube is manufactured large enough to serve as a needle guidance channel and has a small opening at the tip for needle entrance into the breast.
These and other features of the invention will become apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 shows a breast compression device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, where a biopsy needle is inserted from the lateral direction into the compressed breast.
Fig. 2 mammography device with a second breast compression unit for compressing the breast in the lateral direction according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 3 shows a breast compression device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with a size-adjustable lateral compression paddle that is connected to the top compression paddle and the breast support by means of bearings.
Fig. 4 shows a breast compression device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with a lateral spot compression unit.
Fig. 5 shows a breast compression device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention where a biopsy needle is passed into the compressed breast through a lateral spot compression unit to take a sample from a lesion inside the breast.
Fig. 6 is a flow diagram and illustrates the method for taking breast biopsies according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
In principle, identical parts are provided with the same reference symbols in the figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
Figure 1 shows a breast compression device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The breast compression device 100 comprises a top compression paddle 104, a breast support 106, and a lateral compression paddle 102. The top compression paddle 104 and the breast support 106 form a first breast compression unit for compressing the breast 112 in the cranial-caudal direction. As is clear to the reader skilled in biopsies, this cranial-caudal direction extends in vertical direction in Fig. 1. The second breast compression unit for compressing the breast 112 in the lateral direction is realized by the lateral compression paddle 102. The lateral compression paddle 102 comprises a number of openings 108. It can also be observed that a biopsy needle 110 is passed from the lateral direction through one of the openings 108 of the paddle 102 into the breast 112. Thereby, the compression of the breast 112 in the lateral direction by means of the lateral compression paddle 102 prevents movements of breast tissue. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the direction of compression of the second breast compression unit may not be perpendicular to the vertical cranial-caudal direction comprising a non-zero component in the lateral direction. Similarly, the direction of needle insertion may be inclined comprising a non-zero component in the lateral direction.
Figure 2 shows a mammography device 224 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The mammography device comprises a breast support 206 and a second breast compression unit 220 compressing the breast in the lateral direction. The second breast compression unit 220 comprises a lateral compression paddle 202, and a control unit 222 for steering the position of the lateral compression paddle. Moreover, it can be seen that the control unit 222 is mounted on the breast support 206. Thus, by adjusting the height of the breast support 206 also the height of the control unit 222 and the attached lateral compression paddle 202 is adjusted.
Figure 3 shows a breast compression device 300 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The breast 312 is compressed between a top
compression paddle 304 and the breast support 306. The lateral compression paddle 302 comprises several rigid elements 332, 333, and 336. Thereby, the rigid element 336 has an opening for inserting a biopsy needle from the lateral direction into the breast 312. Moreover, the lateral compression paddle 302 comprises compressible elements 334 and 335. The combination of rigid and compressible elements in the lateral compression paddle 302 makes this paddle size-adjustable. Furthermore, it may be achieved that the position of the rigid element 336 with the opening for inserting a biopsy needle into the breast is height- adjustable. The adjustability of the size of the lateral compression paddle 302 is beneficial in particular since the distance between the top compression paddle 304 and the breast support 306 depends on the size of the breast and its compression level in cranial-caudal direction. It is also shown that the lateral compression paddle 302 is connected to the top compression paddle 304 and the breast support 306 by means of bearings 330 and 331. The bearings 330 and 331 may be inserted into grooves in the top compression paddle 304 and the breast support 306. Thus, the top compression paddle 304 and the breast support 306 may guide and stabilize the position of the lateral compression paddle 302. Inside the breast, a lesion 338 is depicted.
Figure 4 shows a breast compression device 400 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The breast compression device 400 comprises a top compression paddle 404 and a breast support 406 for compressing the breast 412 in the cranial-caudal direction. Moreover, the breast compression device 400 comprises a lateral compression paddle 402 for compressing the breast 412 in the lateral direction. As depicted in Fig. 3, the lateral compression paddle 402 comprises rigid and compressible elements and is connected to the top compression paddle 404 and the breast support 406 by means of bearings. In Fig. 4, a lateral spot compression unit 440 is passed through the opening within the lateral compression paddle 402 to apply a spot compression from the lateral direction to the breast. It can be observed that the tip of the lateral spot compression unit 440 that is pushed against the breast 412 is smoothed to reduce the discomfort of the patient during spot compression. Also shown is a lesion 438 inside the breast 412. Comparing Figs. 3 and 4 shows that in Fig. 4 the distance between the tip 442 of the lateral spot compression unit 440 and the lesion 438 is smaller as compared to the distance in Fig. 3 between the lateral surface of the breast 330 and the lesion inside the breast. This illustrates that the insertion length of the biopsy needle for taking a tissue sample from the lesion can be reduced by means of the lateral spot compression unit.
Figure 5 shows a breast compression device 500 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The breast compression device 500 comprises a top compression paddle 504 and a breast support 506 for compressing the breast 512 in the cranial-caudal direction. Moreover, the breast compression device 500 comprises a lateral compression paddle 502 for compressing the breast 512 in the lateral direction. A lesion 538 inside the breast 512 is also depicted. Similar as in Fig. 4, a lateral spot compression unit 540 is passed through the opening in the lateral compression paddle 502 to apply a lateral spot compression to the breast 512. In addition, a biopsy needle 510 is inserted into the breast 512 through the lateral spot compression unit 540. Thus, the lateral spot compression unit 540 serves as a guidance channel for the biopsy needle 510. As already discussed in the context of Fig. 4, the lateral spot compression unit 540 provides a reduced insertion length of the biopsy needle 510 to the lesion 538 inside the breast 512. Thereby, the insertion length is defined as the distance between the distal end of the biopsy needle and the point 550 where the biopsy needle enters into the breast.
Figure 6 shows a method for taking a lateral breast biopsy, wherein the method comprises the following steps. In the first step SI, the breast is compressed in the cranial-caudal direction using a first breast compression unit. In the second step S2, the breast is compressed in the lateral direction using a second breast compression unit. It can be observed that the second breast compression unit comprises a number of openings for inserting a biopsy needle into the breast from the lateral direction. In the third step S3, a biopsy needle 610 is inserted from the lateral direction into the breast to take a tissue sample from the breast. Thereby, the compression of the breast in the lateral direction prevents movements of breast tissue in this direction.
Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from the study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.
Where an indefinite or definite article is used when referring to a singular noun, e.g. "a", "an" or "the", this includes a plurality of that noun unless something else is specifically stated. The terms "about" or "approximately" in the context of the present invention denote an interval of accuracy that the person skilled in the art will understand to still ensure the technical effect of the feature in question. The term typically indicates deviation from the indicated numerical value of ±20 %, preferably ±15 %, more preferably ±10 %, and even more preferably ±5 %.

Claims

CLAIMS:
1. Compression device (100) for use in breast biopsy comprising:
a first breast compression unit configured for compressing the breast in the cranial-caudal direction wherein the first breast compression unit comprises a top compression paddle (104) and a breast support (106,
a second breast compression unit (102) configured for compressing the breast in a lateral direction wherein the second breast compression unit comprises a lateral compression paddle (102),
wherein the second breast compression unit comprises at least one opening
(108) for inserting a biopsy needle (110) for taking breast biopsies from the lateral direction, and
wherein the top compression paddle (104) and the breast support (106) are configured for guiding the lateral compression paddle (102).
2. Compression device (100) according to claim 1,
wherein the second breast compression unit comprises a control unit (222), and
wherein the control unit is configured for positioning the lateral compression paddle (202) relative to the top compression paddle (104) and relative to the breast support (106) in the cranial-caudal direction and/or in the lateral direction.
3. Compression device (100) according to claim 2,
wherein the control unit (222) is rigidly mounted at the breast support (206).
4. Compression device (300) according to claims 1 to 3,
wherein the lateral compression paddle (102) is connected to the top compression paddle (304) and the breast support (306) by means of bearings (330, 331).
5. Compression device (300) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second breast compression unit comprises a lateral compression paddle (302), which is size-adjustable.
6. Compression device (300) according to claim 5,
wherein the lateral compression paddle comprises at least one rigid element (332, 333, 336) and at least one compressible element (334, 335), and
wherein at least one of the rigid elements (336) comprises the opening for inserting the biopsy needle (110) for taking breast biopsies from the lateral direction.
7. Compression device (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein the lateral direction is perpendicular to the cranial-caudal direction.
8. Compression device (500) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein the second breast compression unit further comprises a lateral spot compression unit (540) for causing a spot compression at a target location of the breast,
wherein the lateral spot compression unit is a tube-shaped object for guiding a biopsy needle (510) into the breast, and
wherein the lateral spot compression unit provides the opening for inserting the biopsy needle.
9. Compression device (400) according to claim 8,
wherein the lateral spot compression unit (440) has a curved surface (442) at a first end.
10. Compression device (500) according to claims 8 or 9,
wherein the opening (550) of the lateral spot compression unit (540) at the first end comprises a removable cover, and
wherein the cover is configured to be removable from the lateral spot compression unit while the lateral spot compression unit is in contact with the breast (512).
11. Mammography device (224) comprising
a compression unit according to any of claims 1 to 10 and an imaging unit.
PCT/EP2017/079004 2016-11-18 2017-11-13 Lateral fixation for lateral breast biopsy in breast mammography/tomosynthesis WO2018091393A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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EP16199495.9 2016-11-18
EP16199495 2016-11-18

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Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1995008293A2 (en) * 1993-09-20 1995-03-30 Hussman Karl L Breast localizer
WO1996012439A1 (en) 1994-10-24 1996-05-02 Transscan Research & Development Co. Ltd. Impedance imaging devices and multi-element probe
WO1997031573A1 (en) * 1996-02-27 1997-09-04 Artann Laboratories Method and device for mechanical imaging of breast
DE29908202U1 (en) * 1999-05-03 1999-09-02 Richter Kari Medical compression device
WO2001019233A2 (en) * 1999-09-14 2001-03-22 Papillon Surgical Breast bracket
US20130303895A1 (en) 2012-05-14 2013-11-14 Delphinus Medical Technologies, Inc. System and Method for Performing an Image-Guided Biopsy

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1995008293A2 (en) * 1993-09-20 1995-03-30 Hussman Karl L Breast localizer
WO1996012439A1 (en) 1994-10-24 1996-05-02 Transscan Research & Development Co. Ltd. Impedance imaging devices and multi-element probe
WO1997031573A1 (en) * 1996-02-27 1997-09-04 Artann Laboratories Method and device for mechanical imaging of breast
DE29908202U1 (en) * 1999-05-03 1999-09-02 Richter Kari Medical compression device
WO2001019233A2 (en) * 1999-09-14 2001-03-22 Papillon Surgical Breast bracket
US20130303895A1 (en) 2012-05-14 2013-11-14 Delphinus Medical Technologies, Inc. System and Method for Performing an Image-Guided Biopsy

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