###### Abstract  
Three-dimensional automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) systems seem to offer excellent results in breast cancer screening tests and its early detection, comparable to handheld ultrasound B-mode scanning, with the benefit of saving physician time and reducing handheld ultrasound issues. Nevertheless, the ABUS systems are not very popular, due to the cost and very narrow application. The multi-angle conventional 3D ultrasound compound imaging method (MACUI) is intended for use with standard B-mode scanners in order to reduce cost but preserve the advantages of ABUS systems. The rotational probe movement is utilized in order to collect images for the three-dimensional reconstruction of the scanned tissue's anatomy. The authors evaluate the capabilities to increase the scanned volume and quality of reconstructions, which are limited in current MACUI implementations, with a probe tilt and shift. The study shows and discusses the results of the imaging using different probes available for SmartUs Telemed B-Mode scanner at different scanning geometry in order to determine the capabilities of such an ultrasound imaging system. The results discussed in the paper highlight the benefits in quality improvement and scanning area obtained with tilted and shifted probes, as well as the advantages of using a relatively simple convex probe that does not incorporate software beam steering over more advanced devices. B-mode imaging; 3D ultrasound imaging; ultrasound probes; compound imaging +
Footnote †: journal: Medical Imaging  
dense breasts. The possibilities of early detection of breast malignancy can then be limited due to the decreased sensitivity of a system. It is particularly important because women with dense breasts have an increased risk of developing cancer and have a worse prognosis of interval cancer by screen-detected cancer [2; 3]. Mammographic screening also has limitations, such as overdiagnosis and overtreatment, [4] and, although it is the only screening method, is being phased out in many countries due to its low effectiveness [5]. Recently, a new mammographic test called 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) has been introduced. The test shows higher sensitivity compared to traditional mammography (2D). However, the method is very similar because it is based on X-rays and therefore has the same contraindications. Standard handheld ultrasound (HHUS) B-mode examinations can reveal mammography occult breast lesions. Due to its nature as a non-invasive and non-ionizing modality that does not cause additional radiation exposure, ultrasound imaging (USI) can be used as a complementary screening modality and is recommended for women with dense breast tissue in order to improve the sensitivity of screening tests [6]. In addition, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred method of breast examination in women at high risk of developing cancer. This imaging modality has high sensitivity and moderate specificity for tumor masses larger than 5 mm, including ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) [7]. Magnetic resonance imaging provides qualitative and quantitative data on tumor vascularization and allows the differentiation of benign from malignant masses, with the ability to analyze breast morphology. Furthermore, several other imaging modalities can be used, and are currently in the interest of researchers, to create a more comprehensive representation of breast tissue structure [8], in addition to the most widely used breast imaging diagnostic exams (MMG, HHUS, and MRI). There is no doubt that in order to improve breast cancer detection, new non-invasive, painless, and safe imaging modalities are needed that combine the advantages of MMG, HHUS, and MRI, while allowing the imaging of the three-dimensional structure of the interior of the whole breast in vivo as rapidly, accurately, reproducibly, and operator-independently as possible. The use of ultrasonic waves for this purpose seems particularly promising.