Determination of dose delivery accuracy and image quality in full - Field digital mammography

Abstract

Accuracy of dose delivered, image quality and some technical parameters of the Fujifilm e Amuletf full field digital mammography X-ray equipment has been undertaken. The study was conducted to review the overall condition of the first full e field digital mammography equipment in Ghana with the aim of optimizing mammography practice. Quality control assessment and Mean glandular dose estimation was performed using the International Atomic Energy Agency Human Health Series 2 and 17 protocol and the European guidelines for quality assurance in breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Quantitative image analysis was performed with Image software using the “Rose Model”. The results from the quality control test performed indicate that the system is functioning well. Signal-to-noise and contrast-to-noise values determined from images shows that the images are of standard quality. With the exception of 9.00 mm breast thickness which recorded a displayed Mean Glandular Dose (MGD) of 7.17 mGy, all other MGD calculated or displayed were well within the acceptable level. The percentage difference between the calculated and console displayed MGD was within the acceptable difference level of 50%. The phantom dose values obtained can be used as baseline data for future studies which can assist in setting optimization activities. The mammography X-ray equipment at the Korle-Bu teaching Hospital, Accra-Ghana is functioning under optimized conditions. It is therefore recommended for further usage