Mammographic image analysis and computer assisted biopsy of breast tumors

In this paper we report our most recent results of the development of a computer assisted system for breast biopsy. The system is based on tracked ultrasound images of the breast. A three dimensional ultrasound volume is constructed from a set of tracked B-scan images acquired with a calibrated probe. The system has been designed to assist a radiologist during breast biopsy, and also as a training system for radiology residents. Algorithms for automatic image analysis, were implemented in order to detect microcalcifications or tumors on digital mammography images. We report the development of the system prototype, tested on a physical phantom of a breast with a tumor, made of polivinil alcohol. We also report the results of automatic detection of microcalcifications and tumors on digital mammography images.