Patent Description:
Mammography is the principal method of identifying a lump or lesion found within a breast. Once a lesion is located, a biopsy is typically performed to obtain a tissue or cell sample, which allows for determination as to whether the lesion is benign or malignant. The biopsy may be performed through surgery or by inserting a needle into an object, such as a breast, and removing a sample using a needle and/or aspiration. Locating the lesion prior to the biopsy can be difficult, and various methods have been developed to aid in lesion location. Known methods of locating the lesion prior to a biopsy result in missed targets due to insufficient geometric accuracy. At this time, two methods of locating a lesion predominate, the first of which uses ultrasound, and the second of which relies on multiple images. In the first method, ultrasound is used to guide the needle or vacuum-assisted biopsy device to the target location of the lesion. In the second method, at least two images of the lesion visible under x-rays are taken at two known angles, and the x, y, and z coordinates of a point from the lesion's positions in the two angulated views is computed. Because the object may change shape, these past attempts at locating the lesion could involve multiple attempts at inserting the needle or the vacuum assisted biopsy tool, causing pain and discomfort to the patient.

Presently, devices have been developed to assist in positioning a tool using tomosynthesis. Such a device is disclosed in <CIT>. Digital Tomosynthesis provides a 3D image of a scanned object by taking x-ray images. For example, a breast may be compressed in a stationary position and x-ray images taken at multiple angles during a Digital Breast Tomosynthesis "DBT" scan. From this set of images a reconstruction is performed which generates an image or projections of the complete volume under the form of a large number of images representing cross-sections ("slices") of the object computed at small intervals, e.g. <NUM> or less. The slices can be examined to identify and locate the lesion within the breast. DBT imaging provides better visibility creating improved contrast and visibility.

Once a lesion is identified, current methods of determining an entry point for a biopsy tool involve identifying the coordinates of the target, including the depth the tool is to be inserted. Once the coordinates are determined, the coordinates are transferred to a stage. This stage is moved into place automatically if motorized or manually, and will direct the needle into the breast. The stage uses 3D coordinates of the target identified through analysis of the DBT images or stereotactic pair to move the biopsy device and needle to the proposed coordinates of the target. In known techniques, the needle location is verified before the breast biopsy is performed. Verification of the needle is accomplished by inserting the needle into the breast about two centimeters from the center of the target, due to the distance between the tip of the needle and the side window through which the biopsy is performed, and performing additional image scans or x-rays to verify the needle location relative to the target. After the needle location is verified by confirming it was inserted <NUM> from the target, the needle is then moved to the proposed location of the target, and the needle is inserted into the breast to reach the target. Once the needle is inserted into the location believed to correspond to the target, another scan or image is acquired to verify the needle has reached the lesion prior to any tissue being sampled.

A problem of the method discussed above is that it requires an explicit computation of the x-y-z coordinates of the target point and the transfer of these coordinates to the stage. An additional problem of the method discussed above is the size and weight of the stage, whether the stage is motorized or manual. The reliance on the stage, which positions the biopsy tool, can be complicated and can require a motor as well as a position display at a significant cost. The stage is also bulky and takes up valuable space in a facility where biopsy procedures may be performed.

Two dimension approaches have also been developed; however, a problem with the "2D-localization" approaches occurs when the image of an indicator disposed on the paddle forms a conic projection when superimposed on the lesion. In the current 2D approach, when the needle is pushed perpendicular to the paddle or detector, a systematic error results. Except for structures on the line perpendicular to the detector and intersecting the focal spot, the angulation of the beam will generate an error in the location of the paddle projecting on the same point of the detector as the target. This error can oftentimes cause the target to be missed. This problem is worsened if the needle is inserted at a significant angle.

A method and system for performing a biopsy of an object guided by the 3D image of the object is disclosed. More particularly, embodiments of a method and system for performing a breast biopsy guided by a 3D image of a breast obtained from digital breast tomosynthesis ("DBT") are provided.

In the embodiments of the system and method disclosed herein, a DBT volume is reconstructed. From the reconstruction, a geometric relationship between at least a portion of the reconstructed 3D image and the path of the needle for a given entry point is determined. A transformation is applied to a real or schematic image of a tool holder or a currently displayed or visualized section of a DBT image in a manner that when the tool support is positioned in a location in coincidence with the image of the biopsy target, the biopsy tool will effectively reach the desired target. In an embodiment, the system and/or method may not require the transfer of coordinates corresponding to the lesion to a needle positioning stage, but instead uses or relies upon a graphical superimposition or reprojection of means to position a biopsy tool over a portion of the DBT image. After the graphical superimposition, the needle can be positioned with no reference to coordinates of the target. This is accomplished by an image of a tool holder being geometrically transformed and superimposed with at least one plane or slice of the lesion as selected by a user. By superimposing the tool holder, a position of a biopsy tool on the tool holder may be selected on the superimposed image, which directly corresponds to the tool holder enabling the lesion to be reached by the tool once positioned on the tool holder itself.

An embodiment provides a combined marker or grid between the DBT volume and the paddle, where a relationship is formed by correlating the marker or grid to the marker or grid that is superimposed or reproduced in the DBT volume, or where the relationship allows for extrapolation to the target location. In an embodiment, a grid is located just above the paddle and a real image or schematic image of the grid is transformed and superimposed with the image of a section of the reconstructed DBT volume. The biopsy can then be performed using a portion or an area defined by the paddle or tool holder directly registered with the DBT volume. The transformation consists of a reprojection, reproduction, overlay, or synthesis of the grid or marker on the DBT slices allowing the proper identification of the needle entrance point on the displayed images.

The system and method disclosed herein generates a coincidence of the location in the plane of the apertures or a tool holder with the location in the plane of the target. In an embodiment, this location or address of the target may be in the form of x and y coordinates or any other location identification system allowing a position of a target to be known; for example, a row and column coordinate system where an area or location is associated with or identified by a row and column designation, a grid having discrete squares, circles, polygons, or similar shapes, each shape identifiable within the boundaries or perimeter of the grid, or a concentric circular grid or target where locations are identified, for example by radial distance and circumferential degrees relative to the center. The location may be a precise point, an individual shape, space or an area, such as the area of a square on a grid, which may correspond to the area of a square on a grid of a tool holder, for example. In another example where x and y coordinates are used, the x and y coordinates of the plane of the apertures may be coordinated with the x and y coordinates of the plane of the target. The z coordinate may correspond to the depth a biopsy tool must be inserted to reach the target and can be identified based on the slice selected in the DBT reconstruction. This is accomplished by graphical representation of the visual references associated with the apertures in a graphic plane superimposed with the image of the relevant tomographic plane.

In one embodiment, a method is disclosed for using a tomosynthesis imaging system and at least one marker, which includes applying a compression paddle to an object to be scanned, performing a tomosynthesis scan on at least a portion of the object, reconstructing at least a portion of the tomosynthesis scan of the object on a display screen, wherein an image of the at least one marker has been reprojected or transformed and superimposed on at least a portion of the reconstruction and is visible. The method further includes determining a location of the lesion based upon the image of the at least one marker, correlating the location of the lesion based upon the at least one reprojected marker, and proposing a needle entry point of a biopsy tool using the correlation of the location of the lesion with the at least one marker.

In another embodiment, a system for performing a biopsy is disclosed, which includes a tomosynthesis imaging apparatus for performing a tomosynthesis scan comprising an x-ray source and an x-ray detector, at least one marker, a compression paddle, a controller, and a display screen for displaying at least a portion of a reproduction of the tomosynthesis scan. The system further includes where the controller displays an image of the at least one marker, which has been reprojected or transformed and superimposed on the reproduction, the image of the marker being used to determine a lesion location, the controller correlating the lesion location with the at least one marker, and a needle entry point being proposed based upon the correlation.

In yet another embodiment useful for understanding the present invention, a system for performing a breast biopsy is disclosed, which includes a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging apparatus for performing a digital breast tomosynthesis scan comprising an x-ray source and an x-ray detector, at least one marker, a compression paddle, a controller, and a display screen for displaying at least a portion of a reporoduction of the digital breast tomosynthesis scan. The Controller uses the at least one marker to display a grid on at least a portion of the digital breast tomosynthesis image where the grid is used to determine a lesion location that is correlated with the at least one marker, and a needle entry point is proposed based upon the correlation determined by the controller between the lesion location and the at least one marker.

The operation of the inventive methods and systems will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which:.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an image of an exemplary tomosynthesis apparatus is shown. The tomosynthesis apparatus <NUM> of <FIG> is a digital breast tomosynthesis ("DBT") apparatus, and is supplied for exemplary purposes. It is to be understood that the systems and methods described herein may be applied to other similar uses in the field of x-ray imaging and tomography, and is not limited to the field of DBT or breast biopsies.

At least one advantage that may be realized from the use of the system described herein is that a biopsy needle or device can be accurately positioned at a low cost by using already-existing imaging machines, such as a DBT apparatus, without high cost modifications or attachments. Another advantage is that a visual superimposition of an image of a tool holder where a biopsy tool is positioned may be shown on a selected reconstructed plane or slice rather than explicitly generating coordinates of a target.

In an exemplary embodiment, a DBT apparatus includes a digital detector <NUM> and an x-ray source <NUM> used to project through an object <NUM> being scanned, such as a portion of a patient. The detector receives x-rays that pass through the object being scanned and produces digital signals relating to the intensity of the x-rays. The x-ray source may be in communication with a computer, processor and/or controller. In some embodiments, the x-ray source is in communication with a controller, which is in communication with a computer system. The computer system provides instructions to the controller, for example, to operate other systems and components, such as a gantry, which moves the x-ray source through a predetermined viewing range of viewing angles along an arcuate trajectory.

Referring to <FIG>, an image of patient is shown positioned within an apparatus as described above with reference to <FIG>. A patient <NUM> may stand, sit, or lay down during the biopsy procedure for a continuous period of time, which allows the breast to be scanned and biopsied with better accuracy. The period of time to complete the biopsy procedure as discussed herein may vary. In some instances, the procedure may take less than <NUM> minutes, less than <NUM> minutes, less than <NUM> minutes, or less than an hour. Throughout the procedure the breast or object should remain substantially stationary. This may be accomplished by using compression devices such as a compression paddle <NUM>, a compression grid, a tool holder <NUM>, or similar means to hold the breast in a substantially stationary position at least for the time when the breast is initially scanned to a time when the biopsy is performed. The compression paddle <NUM> may hold the breast still while providing apertures that allow for insertion of a biopsy tool, needle, core needle, or vacuum assisted core needle and the tool holder <NUM> or grid may be used to hold the biopsy tool or needle in place. The compression paddle <NUM> or the tool holder <NUM> may also serve to compress the object or breast to minimize the thickness traversed by x-rays.

Referring to <FIG>, and <FIG>, exemplary embodiments of compression paddles that may be used with a tomosynthesis system to hold the breast in place during a procedure are shown. According to an embodiment, compression paddle <NUM> may be in the form of molded plastic, and include at least one aperture <NUM>, which allows the needle of a biopsy tool to extend through the compression paddle <NUM>. Alternatively, in circumstances where a biopsy tool or needle need not extend through compression paddle, such as when performing a lateral biopsy, the compression paddle <NUM> may not have any apertures. The compression paddle <NUM> may be in the form of any material that is rigid enough to hold a breast or object in place, but does not substantially interfere with the image acquisition of the tomosynthesis apparatus <NUM>.

In an one embodiment, compression paddle <NUM> has a paddle domain <NUM>, a first substantially planar surface <NUM>, a second substantially planar surface <NUM> opposite the first substantially planar surface <NUM>, and a width <NUM> defined between first substantially planar surface <NUM> and second substantially planar surface <NUM>. Compression paddle <NUM> has a grid domain <NUM>, which includes at least one aperture <NUM> or perforation for inserting a biopsy needle through the compression paddle <NUM> as well as positioning means <NUM>, <NUM> which aid in the positioning of a biopsy tool or biopsy needle. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one aperture <NUM> is in the shape or form of a circle, the y-coordinate positioning means <NUM> are numbers, and the x-coordinate positioning means <NUM> are letters. Positioning means <NUM>, <NUM> on compression paddle <NUM> may be in any form that allows for accurate positioning of a biopsy tool or needle.

Referring to <FIG>, and <FIG>, at least one aperture <NUM> may be of any shape or form which allows for a biopsy tool or needle to pass through the compression paddle <NUM>, including but not limited to substantially circular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, polygonal, or linear apertures, or any combination thereof. The grid domain <NUM> of the compression paddle <NUM> may vary in size, for example, occupying less than about <NUM>% of the paddle as shown in <FIG>, less than about <NUM>% of the paddle as shown in <FIG>, less than about <NUM>% of the paddle as shown in <FIG>, or an even greater amount of the compression paddle <NUM> (not shown).

In one embodiment, the system comprises at least one marker <NUM>. The at least one marker may be a small, radiopaque marker, which produces a limited artifact on or within a DBT image or a DBT image slice. In at least one embodiment, the at least one marker <NUM> may be formed as a grid (i.e. the marker may be as a grid in and of itself) or include a portion defining a grid. This grid may correspond, for instance, to a grid on compression paddle <NUM> or tool holder <NUM>. The at least one marker <NUM> may be located on the compression paddle <NUM>, on a tool holder, or both. The at least one marker <NUM> may be located on a surface parallel to the compression paddle <NUM> and/or on a surface non-parallel to the compression paddle <NUM>. Though not limited to these locations or biopsies, the at least one marker <NUM> or grid located on the compression paddle <NUM> can allow for performance of a biopsy from the top of an object, whereas a marker or grid located on the tool holder <NUM> allows for biopsies to be performed from the top, side, or a lateral position of an object. The at least one marker <NUM> may be visible in a tomographic plane of a DBT reconstruction or reconstructed volume. In some embodiments, multiple paddle markers may be used. By using multiple paddle markers <NUM>, for example three, possible angulations of the paddle in one or two directions can be determined by a machine or user.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, means of positioning a biopsy tool on a tomosynthesis apparatus are shown. Referring to <FIG>, the tool holder <NUM> is positioned on the compression paddle <NUM>. In an embodiment, the tool holder <NUM> is made of a material that is strong enough in form to hold and position a tool, such as a biopsy tool, but does not distort or cause substantial artifacts in an x-ray image. In an embodiment, the tool holder <NUM> has at least one aperture <NUM>, which aligns with the at least one aperture <NUM> in compression paddle <NUM>. In another embodiment, the tool holder <NUM> substantially aligns with at least one aperture <NUM> in compression paddle <NUM>. The tool holder <NUM> can include positioning means similar to or different from the positioning means on compression paddle <NUM> to allow for accurate positioning of a biopsy tool or needle on tool holder <NUM>. In an embodiment, the tool holder <NUM> is in the form of a grid <NUM>. The grid <NUM> can be in the form of plastic having walls of a height that can hold the biopsy tool and are thin so as to minimize the areas not accessible by the biopsy needle. In some embodiments, the grid <NUM> may be used to compress the object to be scanned while providing at least one aperture <NUM> to place the biopsy needle through.

In an embodiment, tool holder <NUM> is fixed to the compression paddle <NUM>. Tool holder <NUM> may be fixed to the compression paddle <NUM> permanently if the tool holder <NUM> does not disturb the image acquisition and/or image reconstruction process in an undesirable manner or to an undesirable degree. In an embodiment, the tool holder <NUM> need not touch the breast. The tool holder <NUM> may be placed on top of the compression paddle <NUM> and function only to hold a biopsy tool. In another embodiment, the tool holder <NUM> may be part of the compression paddle <NUM>, or even replace the compression paddle <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. If the tool holder <NUM> generates no artifacts, it may be used to replace compression the paddle <NUM> and need not be removed prior to a scan being performed. In another embodiment, if the tool holder <NUM> does generate artifacts, it can be removed from the field of view of the scan, the scan may be performed, and the tool holder <NUM> may be replaced into the field of view afterwards. The geometry of the tool holder <NUM> is known by design, so its image or a comparable schematic representation can be synthesized for superimposition or reproduction, using the required transformation, with the tomographic slice demonstrating the biopsy target or lesion. If the tool holder <NUM> is removable, it should be replaced accurately and consistently.

The tool holder <NUM> may be located in any position which allows for the needle of a biopsy tool to reach the lesion or target of the biopsy. In an exemplary embodiment, the tool holder <NUM> is located just above or on top of the compression paddle <NUM>, wherein once a biopsy tool is positioned in the tool holder <NUM>, the needle of the biopsy tool will extend through an aperture in the compression paddle <NUM> to reach the target of the biopsy.

Referring now to <FIG>, an exemplary embodiment is illustrated of a lateral biopsy. In a lateral biopsy, the tool holder <NUM> is located on a side of the object <NUM> to be biopsied, to a side of the compression paddle <NUM>, or substantially perpendicular to the compression paddle <NUM> or object <NUM>. In this embodiment, once a biopsy tool <NUM> is positioned in the tool holder <NUM>, the needle of the biopsy tool may extend into the object to be biopsied without passing through the compression paddle <NUM>. Tool holder <NUM> may provide compression to the object, stability to the biopsy tool <NUM>, and an aperture for which the biopsy tool <NUM> may pass through. Additionally, the holder device <NUM> may be used in the tool holder <NUM> to provide additional positioning means. In yet another embodiment, the tool holder <NUM> may be located at an opposite position as compression paddle <NUM>, wherein the object to be biopsied may be positioned between the compression paddle <NUM> and the tool holder <NUM>. In this embodiment, once the biopsy tool is positioned in the tool holder <NUM>, the needle of the biopsy tool may extend into the object to be biopsied without passing through the compression paddle <NUM>.

Referring next to <FIG> and <FIG>, means for moving the tool holder <NUM> into and out of an image frame or field of view are shown. In an embodiment, the tool holder <NUM> may optionally be removable from a field of view <NUM> during image acquisition to avoid artifacts in the reconstructed volume caused by the tool holder <NUM>. <FIG> depicts the tool holder <NUM> in the "up" or a removed position <NUM>, where the tool holder <NUM> will not appear in the image acquired by tomosynthesis apparatus <NUM>. An arrow <NUM> depicts an optional path of movement of the tool holder <NUM> moving from the removed position <NUM> of <FIG> to a "down," established, or replaced position <NUM> of <FIG>. The tool holder <NUM> may be fully or partially removed from the field of view <NUM> of the detector <NUM>. It should be understood that in embodiments where the tool holder <NUM> is removed from the field of view <NUM>, the tool holder <NUM> may be removed, detached, swiveled, rotated, or taken from the field of view <NUM> in any manner which eliminates at least a portion of the tool holder <NUM> from the field of view <NUM>.

In one embodiment, where the tool holder <NUM> is removed from field of view <NUM> during image acquisition, it should is reinstalled after the image is acquired in a solid and reproducible manner. The reinstallation of the tool holder <NUM> can be accomplished by varying means such as by coordinating or aligning visible markers on the compression paddle <NUM>, the tool holder <NUM>, or both to align the compression paddle <NUM> with the tool holder <NUM>, or the tool holder <NUM> with the compression paddle <NUM>. In one embodiment, the compression paddle <NUM> and tool holder <NUM> both include visible markers, which are used to determine the unambiguous identification of the possible position of the biopsy tool on the tool holder <NUM>. The desired accuracy and the accuracy achieved by the method and system discussed herein of the reinstallation of the tool holder is better than <NUM> and, more particularly, better than <NUM>.

Drawing attention to <FIG>, a tomosynthesis system may include a biopsy tool <NUM> and/or a holder device <NUM> used to perform the biopsy. A variety of tools may be used in the system, for example, a core needle or vacuum assisted biopsy tool. In an embodiment, the biopsy tool <NUM> may be positioned within the holder device <NUM> that provides a set of discrete positions for which the biopsy tool <NUM> may be positioned in one, two, or more directions. The holder device <NUM>, also known as a "dice," may allow for discrete or intermediate positioning of the biopsy tool <NUM> aligned with an aperture relative to the position of the tool holder <NUM> and/or the compression paddle <NUM>. The holder device <NUM> includes a first surface <NUM>, a second surface <NUM> opposite the first surface <NUM>, a width <NUM> defined between the first surface <NUM> and second surface <NUM> (not shown), and at least one aperture <NUM> extending from the first surface <NUM> to the second surface <NUM> of holder device <NUM> creating a passage or channel. In one embodiment, the tool holder <NUM> is in the form of a rectangular grid having rectangular apertures, and holder device <NUM> is in the form of a rectangle that sits within one aperture of the tool holder <NUM>. In another embodiment, the holder device <NUM> is in the form of a square and is positioned one of the squares of the holder device <NUM>, where the holder device <NUM> is subdivided into nine positions comprising nine apertures. At least a portion of the holder device <NUM> may be larger than the at least one aperture in the tool holder <NUM> or the holder device <NUM> may be smaller than the at least one aperture in the tool holder <NUM> and rest upon the compression paddle <NUM>. The position of the holder device <NUM> aligns the biopsy tool <NUM> with an aperture <NUM> in the compression paddle <NUM> and an entry point at the surface of the paddle so that at least a portion of the biopsy tool <NUM> may enter the object to be biopsied through one aperture <NUM>. In an embodiment, the portion of the biopsy tool <NUM> that passes through the compression paddle <NUM> is a needle that passes into a patient's breast.

A removable stopper <NUM> may be included on the biopsy tool <NUM> to provide for accurate needle positioning for a biopsy. In an embodiment, the exterior surface <NUM> of the biopsy tool <NUM> includes positioning means to indicate the depth at which the needle will be inserted into the object to be biopsied. In an embodiment, the positioning means are numerical and indicate millimeters. The stopper <NUM> may be fitted onto the exterior surface <NUM> of the biopsy tool <NUM> to position the biopsy tool <NUM> to extend into the object to be biopsied to a depth determined through identification of a target or lesion in tomosynthesis reconstruction. The stopper <NUM> may prevent the needle from extending past the target and thus missing the target, and may help to ensure the needle extends far enough to reach the target within the object to be biopsied. The stopper <NUM> may be in the form of a hard plastic, rubber, or similar material. In an embodiment, the stopper <NUM> is larger than the at least one aperture <NUM> in the holder device <NUM>. The stopper <NUM> therefore holds the biopsy tool <NUM> steady and in place without shifting in any direction including up, down, or to a side, ensuring accuracy of the needle placement in the x, y, and z directions. In another embodiment, the stopper <NUM> is used directly on the tool holder <NUM> to position the biopsy tool without the use of the holder device <NUM>.

As object <NUM> is compressed by the compression paddle <NUM>, equipment capable of x-ray imaging, such as tomosynthesis apparatus <NUM>, is used to acquire a scan <NUM> of the object <NUM>. In one embodiment, the equipment is tomosynthesis equipment capable of performing a tomosynthesis scan of the object <NUM>. In another embodiment, the equipment is a digital breast tomosynthesis system, which is capable of performing a DBT scan of a patient's breast. The scan <NUM> is performed for at least a portion of the object <NUM> using an x-ray system, and x-ray image data <NUM> is acquired.

At a high level, after a scan is performed, a user selects the tomographic slice or section where the potential lesion is visible. An image of a grid, marker, and/or tool support, or a schematic representation of a grid, marker and/or tool support is superimposed with the tomographic section after having been transformed. A user then identifies which of the apertures in the paddle and/or tool holder resides on the image and means are provided to identify which aperture in a holder device if used, also known as a dice, will give the best result. For example, numbers and letters may be used as shown in <FIG>. If a holder device <NUM> is being used, a reproduction of the holder device <NUM> may be shown or points representing the apertures of the holder device <NUM> may be shown in each aperture of the tool holder <NUM>. In another embodiment, the user may select or designate an aperture in the holder device <NUM> using selecting means such as a mouse, and the holder device <NUM> may be shown for this aperture only.

Referring to <FIG>, a reconstructed tomosynthesis reconstruction containing image data <NUM> of a volume <NUM> representing the object <NUM> may be displayed, or a portion thereof, as reconstructed slices <NUM> on a display screen <NUM>. Display screen <NUM> may be located on the tomosynthesis apparatus <NUM>, on a screen in communication with tomosynthesis apparatus <NUM>, or on a remote screen.

In an embodiment, reconstructed slices <NUM> are displayed using a remote work station computer <NUM>. The computer <NUM> is in communication with a data storage component and display screen <NUM>, and is further capable of causing image data <NUM> to be reconstructed into the volume <NUM> or slices <NUM> and is displayed on the display screen <NUM>. The data storage component may store data and operating parameters utilized by the computer to the tomosynthesis apparatus <NUM> and/or display and analyze the reconstructed slices <NUM>. The data storage component may be in the form of a transient or fixed memory. The data storage component stores image data <NUM>, which may be acquired by a tomosynthesis apparatus <NUM> connected to the computer or may be acquired through importing a scan performed at a remote location. The data storage component may also store software or algorithm codes used to operate the tomosynthesis apparatus <NUM>, algorithms for reconstructing image data <NUM>, and/or image data that has been constructed using the algorithms.

There is no limit or constraint for the method or system described herein on the sampling of the reconstructed volume <NUM> other than reconstructed volume <NUM> being known. The display screen <NUM> displays reconstructed slices <NUM>, which may be displayed as a reconstructed volume <NUM>, as an individual tomosynthesis slice <NUM>, and/or as a group or set of tomosynthesis slices. The display screen <NUM> aids a user or machine in identifying a target or lesion <NUM> and in determining the location of the lesion <NUM>. In one embodiment, the location of the lesion <NUM> is determined based upon the at least one grid or marker. The grid or marker may be an image of an actual grid or marker, a reprojection of a grid or marker, or a synthesized grid or marker. The transformation applied to the image or schematic representation of the grid, marker, or tool holder ensures that if the position selected coincides with the biopsy target, the needle will effectively reach the target. In another embodiment, the x-coordinate <NUM> and the y-coordinate <NUM> of the target may be identified using a grid <NUM> superimposed over a tomosynthesis slice <NUM>. The z-coordinate of the lesion <NUM> corresponding to the depth of the lesion <NUM> is determined by analyzing or selecting a tomosynthesis slice <NUM>. The z-coordinate of the individual tomosynthesis slice <NUM> may be perpendicular to a breast support.

Means allowing compression paddle <NUM> to be registered with respect to the volume <NUM> are present. In one embodiment, the registration means include numerical, alphabetical, or symbolic means to register the volume domain <NUM> with the paddle domain <NUM>, with the tool holder <NUM>, or both. In another embodiment, registration may be performed using a known relationship between the at least one marker <NUM> and the reproduced marker or markers visible on a tomosynthesis slice <NUM> to register volume domain <NUM> with paddle domain <NUM>, with needle holder <NUM>, or both. Any means that allow coordination or registration of the compression paddle <NUM> with volume domain <NUM> may be used. At least one marker <NUM> may be visible in slices of a volume parallel to the detector <NUM> or in slices of the volume non-parallel to the detector. In an embodiment, at least one marker <NUM> is at least partially visible in one or more slices of the reproduction in at least one orientation, and at least one slice is used from one or more additional orientations to locate the lesion or target.

In another embodiment, the set positions where the biopsy tool <NUM> may be fixed onto the tool holder <NUM> are represented in the plane of the tomosynthesis slice <NUM>. In another embodiment, one marker determines the z-position and two, three, or more markers allow an operator to take into account possible angulations of the paddle in one or more directions. These markers may be in the form of radiopaque points visible in the volume domain <NUM> to allow full determination of its average plane. The markers may also be used to estimate the deformation of the paddle. In an embodiment, a marker or markers on the compression paddle <NUM> may be in the form of a disk within a circle, which allows for estimation of paddle deformation in order to accurately reproject location means onto the reconstructed tomosynthesis slice <NUM> or slices <NUM>. The location means reprojected may be in the form of a grid <NUM>.

The markers may vary in size, quantity, and/or shape, and allow for accurate reproduction on the tomosynthesis slices <NUM> or slice <NUM> of the compression paddle positioning means <NUM>, <NUM> or compression paddle grid domain <NUM>, or tool holder <NUM>. The representation of the markers may be computed and take into account the geometry of the system and the possible angulations of the biopsy needle. The user or machine knows the orientation of the needle with respect to one or more of the compression paddle <NUM>, biopsy tool <NUM>, or tool holder <NUM>. Knowing the angle will improve accuracy when positioning the needle in the position derived from image data <NUM> that corresponds to lesion <NUM>, improving the likelihood lesion <NUM> will be reached by the needle.

In one embodiment, tomosynthesis slices <NUM> or slices <NUM> are reproduced based upon the at least one marker <NUM>. In this embodiment, the slices are transformed or manipulated to account for variables such as deflection, paddle deformation, paddle tilt, etc. In another embodiment, the at least one marker <NUM> is transformed or reproduced to fit the reproduction of the slices. The at least one marker <NUM> may represent the tool holder <NUM>, which may be transformed to fit the slices. In this embodiment, the at least one marker <NUM>, which can be in the form of a grid or other shape, may be constructed according to one or more variables, such as deflection, paddle deformation, paddle tilt, etc. while the slice <NUM> or slices <NUM> are not manipulated. In these embodiments, where the reproduction of the slice <NUM> or slices <NUM> are transformed, or where the at least one marker <NUM> is transformed, an identified location of the at least one marker <NUM> is represented in superimposition with the lesion to be biopsied, and if a biopsy tool is positioned at the identified location, the needle will reach the lesion.

The operator of the tomosynthesis system may choose how and when to display the reprojection or reproduction of positioning means <NUM>, <NUM> and/or grid domain <NUM>. An operator may choose to hide or display the reprojection as the user determines based on the user's objective. In one embodiment, the reconstructed radiopaque paddle grid <NUM> may be reprojected on tomographic slices <NUM> or on an individual tomographic slice <NUM>. In another embodiment, the grid is in a virtual form based off of known data corresponding to the grid and aligned using the marker <NUM>.

From the reprojection, the entrance point of the needle and depth to be used when the biopsy is performed can be determined. With reference to <FIG>, z-coordinate <NUM> of the lesion <NUM> can be determined by selecting one or more of the tomographic slices <NUM>, where the slice or slices selected correspond(s) to the z-coordinate <NUM>. Based on the z-coordinate <NUM>, the stopper <NUM> may be used to fix the depth to which the needle may be inserted into the object <NUM>. Alternatively, threading may be used to fix the depth of the insertion of the needle.

In an embodiment, the location of entry point <NUM> of the biopsy tool <NUM> is determined by a basic computation of the location of lesion <NUM>. In another embodiment, the entry point <NUM> of the biopsy tool <NUM> may be determined by building a relationship or correlation between the location of the lesion <NUM> and the at least one marker <NUM> to determine entry point <NUM>, which will reach the location of the lesion <NUM> in the tomographic slices <NUM>. Such locations may be in the form of coordinates, such as x and y coordinates.

In at least one embodiment, a controller is used to correlate the marker with the target or lesion <NUM>. The controller may be in the form of a computer or processor having a memory and imaging processing capabilities. The controller can be used to generate a display or representation of the at least one marker on the reproduction. The controller may then form a relationship or correlation between the marker, the marker for example being grid <NUM>, and the lesion <NUM> by computing the location of lesion. Based on this correlation, the controller may then propose the needle entry point <NUM>. The controller may also be used to determine a relationship or correlation between the coordinates of the entry point <NUM> and the coordinate of the target lesion <NUM> in the tomographic slices <NUM>.

In another embodiment, visual markers such as the grid domain <NUM> may be painted on the compression paddle <NUM> and/or needle holder <NUM> and overlayed onto tomographic slices <NUM> by the controller and displayed on a display screen. In generating a the grid display or projection, the controller takes into account paddle tilt/deformation and needle orientation such that there is a match between the coordinates in the plane using the grid and the original grid on which the needle will actually be positioned. The controller can notify the depth to the user, taking into account the geometry. Using the depth and the correlation to the target, the controller can propose a needle entry point. The user may then easily place the needle on the original grid or compression paddle having a grid. The controller may reconstruct the grid on the uppermost slice of the DBT volume or a synthetic grid may be displayed corresponding to the actual grid on the tool holder or compression paddle. Because of this, the original grid on the paddle and/or tool holder may or may not be radiopaque.

The x-coordinate, y-coordinate, and z-coordinates of the paddle domain <NUM> and the depth corresponding to the selected tomosynthesis slice <NUM> may be updated as the user moves a selection means from one slice to another slice or from one position on a slice to a different position on the slice. The x-coordinate and y-coordinate of the compression paddle <NUM> and/or the tool holder <NUM> may not be the same as the x-coordinate and y-coordinate of the lesion <NUM> and/or may not be the same as the x-coordinate and y-coordinate of entry point <NUM>. Therefore, the coordinates of the lesion may be different from the coordinates of the proposed needle entry point. The coordinates may differ because the reprojected marker, markers, or grid may be based at least in part upon information about needle angulation, paddle deflection, paddle deformation, registration between a domain of the compression paddle with a volume of the tomosynthesis reconstruction (reconstructed volume), or any combination of information. By employing the system and/or method disclosed herein, the coordinates of the lesion can be checked or compared to a position on the tool holder <NUM> and/or compression paddle <NUM> to aid in positioning a biopsy tool to reach lesion <NUM>.

In an embodiment, entry point <NUM> of the biopsy tool <NUM> may be determined using visual markers, which correspond to the at least one marker <NUM> on the compression paddle <NUM>, tool holder <NUM>, or both. In an embodiment, the entry point <NUM> of the biopsy tool <NUM> may be determined using a grid painted on compression paddle <NUM>, which is reprojected over a tomosynthesis slice <NUM>. Using the at least one marker <NUM>, the virtual grid <NUM> is overlaid onto a tomosynthesis slice and displayed on display screen <NUM> or surface, such as the surface of the object of interest. The virtual grid <NUM> allows an operator or machine to take into account compression paddle tilt, deflection, deformation, needle angulations, and needle orientation such that there is a match between the coordinates in the plane using the virtual grid <NUM> and a compression paddle grid domain <NUM> or tool holder grid <NUM> where the biopsy tool will be positioned. The depth, taking into account geometry, is notified to the operator or machine. In an embodiment, the geometry is based upon a known needle angle and the determined x-coordinate and y-coordinate of lesion <NUM>. The operator can then easily and simply position the biopsy tool <NUM> on the compression paddle <NUM> or in tool the holder <NUM>. The virtual grid <NUM> on the tomosynthesis slice <NUM> or slices <NUM> may be a grid reconstructed on the uppermost slice of volume <NUM> or a grid reproduced on one or more of the tomosynthesis slices <NUM>. A grid on compression paddle <NUM> or tool holder <NUM> may or may not be radiopaque.

Using reconstructed slices <NUM> and the at least one marker, an entry point <NUM> of the biopsy tool <NUM> may be determined or estimated by an operator or machine. With reference to <FIG>, in an exemplary embodiment, the location of the biopsy tool entry point <NUM> can be validated by an operator by placing a target marker <NUM> on the proposed or candidate entry point <NUM> location and performing another DBT image acquisition. Alternatively, a virtual marker may be placed on the proposed entry point <NUM> within the tomosynthesis slices <NUM>. The validation confirms the target marker and the proposed entry point <NUM> derived from image data <NUM> match so that a biopsy needle will reach the target lesion prior to positioning or inserting biopsy tool <NUM>.

The target marker <NUM> can be reconstructed using an acquisition in combination with previous acquisitions since the location of the target marker <NUM> is known in the z-position above compression paddle <NUM>. A subtraction of a zero degree projection with and without the marker can confirm the location of lesion <NUM>. In an embodiment, an actual reconstruction of the target marker <NUM> may be reprojected onto any tomosynthesis slice <NUM> or 2D view. The weight of the biopsy gun, the size of the biopsy gun, or both may be used to simulate similar paddle deformation to that which will be present when the biopsy is performed. Markers on the paddle, for example a disk in a circle, can allow estimation of paddle deformation in order to ensure accuracy during reprojection.

Once the entry point <NUM> of the biopsy tool <NUM> is determined, the biopsy tool <NUM> is positioned within the tool holder <NUM>. In one embodiment, the tool holder <NUM> is used to hold the biopsy tool <NUM> straight and perpendicular to the plane of compression paddle <NUM>. The biopsy tool <NUM> may then be used to insert a trocar point meant to penetrate a patient's skin and reach the lesion <NUM>. The trocar point may be replaced with a tomography-compatible stylet, which can be similar in weight and size to a biopsy needle. If the user determines it is okay to proceed, the stylet is replaced with a biopsy needle.

Referring to <FIG>, a projector <NUM> is shown displaying a projection <NUM> of a tomosynthesis slice on the object <NUM> to be biopsied. The projection <NUM> may be displayed in any form or in any manner that allows a user to identify a lesion and/or target. For example, the projection may be displayed on any surface, screen, monitor, object, and/or directly onto the skin of a patient. In at least one embodiment, a user may locate the lesion <NUM> on a display screen as previously described. The displayed slice <NUM> or slices <NUM> may be transformed using the at least one marker <NUM>, and displayed on a surface, such the patient's skin, close to or coinciding with the proposed entrance point <NUM> using optical or projection means <NUM> such as "picoprojector" or any means which can produce a projection. The image of the selected DBT slice can be projected with a satisfactory light level (a few hundred lumens) with modern technology devices. This would allow any device to position the tool on the transformed image without any consideration of coordinates. The projection <NUM> would typically be displayed between the compression paddle <NUM> and detector <NUM>. In another embodiment, the projector <NUM> may display the projection <NUM> onto the object <NUM>, where the projection <NUM> also provides an image of a tool holder. Tool holder <NUM> may then be aligned, based upon the projection <NUM> and a biopsy tool fixed accordingly to align with an entry point.

An operator may select a portion of the 3D reconstructed volume containing the desired biopsy lesion <NUM>. As a consequence of the transformation applied to the image, positioning the biopsy tool in coincidence with the image of the biopsy target will ensure that the target will be reached using a projection. The z-coordinate information will be determined from the entry point and the actual position of the biopsy target using the selected tomosynthesis slice <NUM>. This embodiment would allow for accurate positioning of a biopsy tool based upon an image of the lesion projected onto the object <NUM> in the form of a tomosynthesis slice without needing to determine an aperture in a tool holder or holder device. Optionally, x-coordinates and y-coordinates, <NUM> and <NUM> respectively, may also be displayed to aid in positioning of the biopsy tool. These coordinates could allow for discrete or continuous, purely manual or power-assisted positioning of the biopsy tool. Angulation may also be provided to the tool holder with the displayed image being transformed accordingly. The tool holder <NUM> (not shown) may then be positioned with reference to the target <NUM>, but without the need to determine a specific position or coordinates of a biopsy tool on the tool holder <NUM>. A user would need only to position an aperture of the tool holder <NUM> in alignment with the target <NUM>.

In an embodiment, biopsy tool <NUM> may be configured as a biopsy needle mounted to a handpiece. The biopsy needle may include an outer cannula, an inner cannula positioned therein, and an opening for receiving a portion of tissue from the biopsied lesion or target. The cannulas form a cutting device wherein the outer cannula is configured to slide or rotate over the inner cannula, and/or the inner cannula is configured to slide or rotate within the outer cannula. The biopsy tool may further comprise an introducer stylet and an introducer sheath mounted to the handpiece. The introducer stylet inserted within the introducer sheath is inserted into a patient.

Once biopsy tool <NUM> is inserted, at least one biopsy sample may be removed from the object <NUM>, such as a patient's breast, by use of aspiration and/or the cutting mechanism formed by the inner and outer cannulas. The sample is moved by aspiration down an aspiration tube coupled to a collection chamber with, for example, individual pre-labeled chambers to delineate the order or location of each sample from the biopsy procedure. Alternative means of labeling each sample allowing for location identification and/or order identification may also be employed.

Referring to <FIG>, a flow chart depicting an embodiment of a method of performing a biopsy is shown. In one embodiment, the method is performed on a patient undergoing a breast biopsy procedure, though not limited to a breast biopsy. At step <NUM> a compression paddle is applied to an object to be scanned. The compression paddle may have at least one aperture and at least one marker <NUM>. The at least one marker <NUM> may be visible in a plane of a tomosynthesis reconstruction applied to an object to be scanned. A tomosynthesis scan is performed on at least a portion of the object at step <NUM>. Following the scan, at least a portion of the object being scanned may be reconstructed or reproduced on a display screen at step <NUM>. At step <NUM>, the lesion or target may be located in the image of the scanned object. In an embodiment, once the lesion is located the at least one marker on the compression paddle may be used to determine a location or address of the lesion in the image at step <NUM>. The location of the lesion may be correlated to the at least one marker <NUM> at step <NUM>. Using the correlation between the lesion location <NUM> and the at least one marker <NUM>, an entry point for a needle may be identified or proposed at step <NUM>. Using this aforementioned method, if an insertion device such as a biopsy tool needle is positioned at the identified or proposed entry point, the device will effectively reach the lesion if it is properly inserted at said proposed or identified entry point.

Referring to <FIG>, a flow chart depicting in detail an embodiment of a method of performing a biopsy is shown. A patient may be positioned in a tomosynthesis imaging system either standing, sitting, or laying down. Once the patient is positioned, a compression paddle is applied to the part of the patient to be scanned or the object to be scanned at step <NUM>. In one embodiment, the compression paddle has at least one aperture and at least one marker on the compression paddle visible in a plane of a tomosynthesis reconstruction. In another embodiment, the compression paddle has at least three markers visible in a tomographic plane of the reconstruction. The marker may also be in the form of a grid painted on the compression paddle. The grid, marker, or markers may be radiopaque. In yet another embodiment, at least one marker visible in a plane of a tomosynthesis reconstruction may be located on a tool holder.

The tool holder may be affixed to the compression paddle or may be removable from the compression paddle. A user or machine may remove the tool holder from the field of view of the tomosynthesis scan prior to a scan being performed. Optionally, the tomosynthesis scan may be performed with the tool holder fixed to the compression paddle. If an initial tomosynthesis scan is performed without the tool holder in the field of view of the tomosynthesis scan, the tool holder may be replaced into the field of view and additional scans may be performed. The additional scans can allow a user or machine to identify the position on the tool holder corresponding to the lesion in the object.

A tomosynthesis scan of at least a portion of the object being scanned is performed at step <NUM>. The tomosynthesis scan is transferred at step <NUM> to a display screen that is communicatively coupled to the tomosynthesis system that performed the scan. The display screen may be attached to a computer processing unit. In another embodiment, the tomosynthesis scan is acquired from another source, such as a memory. The other source may include a tomosynthesis scanning system located remotely from a display or computer system. For example, a scan may be sent to or from a first location such as a hospital, performing a scan to a second location, which can determine a proposed needle entry point remotely and transmit the same back to the first location.

Upon receiving the scan, at step <NUM> at least a portion of the tomosynthesis scan may be reconstructed on the display screen. At step <NUM>, the domain of the compression paddle and the domain of the volume of the scanned object may be registered. In an embodiment, at step <NUM>, the lesion or target is then identified by a user moving through a slice or a group of slices of the tomosynthesis reconstruction. Once the lesion is identified, a particular slice of the tomosynthesis reconstruction may be selected by the user at step <NUM> and the depth or z-coordinate of the lesion can be determined. If the user has not already done so, using the at least one marker on the compression paddle a user may reproject or reconstruct the marker over at least a portion of the scanned object at step <NUM>. This reprojection is used to determine a location or address of the lesion at step <NUM>. A relationship or correlation is then formed between the location of the lesion and a marker on the compression paddle or tool holder. In one embodiment, the location or address is an x-coordinate and a y-coordinate corresponding to the lesion, and a z-coordinate. From the z-coordinate, the x-coordinate, and the y-coordinate of the lesion, a correlation is drawn with a marker on the paddle and a needle entry point of a biopsy tool is proposed at step <NUM>.

A user can confirm that the proposed needle entry point reaches the lesion using the tomosynthesis reconstruction. In an embodiment, the entry point of the needle or placement of the biopsy tool is confirmed by placing a target marker at step <NUM>. The target marker may be positioned virtually onto the proposed entry point of the biopsy needle in the compression paddle. The target marker may then be projected or reproduced in a tomographic plane of the reconstruction at step <NUM> to determine if the entry point of the needle and the lesion or target correspond. If the lesion is missed, the process may be repeated until the target marker and the lesion correspond indicating that the needle position is correct and will reach the target of the biopsy.

Once the location of the needle entry point is determined and optionally confirmed, at step <NUM>, a biopsy tool is prepared to be positioned in the biopsy tool holder. In an embodiment, a stopper is removably affixed at step <NUM> to the biopsy tool based off of the determined depth of the lesion. The stopper aids in ensuring the biopsy needle reaches the lesion and does not pass by the lesion or fall short of the lesion. In an embodiment, the biopsy tool may be positioned in a holder device at step <NUM>, which will allow for intermediate positioning of the biopsy tool within the biopsy tool holder. At step <NUM>, the biopsy tool is positioned in the biopsy tool holder. In an embodiment, the biopsy tool is positioned in the biopsy tool holder without any reference to the coordinates of the lesion. The biopsy tool may be positioned manually or by a machine or motor.

Once the biopsy tool is positioned, the biopsy tool is used to perform a biopsy of the object at step <NUM> by inserting the needle. In one embodiment not forming part of the present invention, a biopsy needle is inserted in a portion of a patient to reach the lesion. In another embodiment not forming part of the present invention, a trocar point is inserted to penetrate the patient's skin, the trocar point is then replaced by a stylet, and upon confirmation that it is okay to proceed, the stylet is replaced by a biopsy needle. In some embodiments the proposed needle entry point is projected or superimposed onto a surface of the object.

A sample or samples of the target of the biopsy may be removed from the patient at step <NUM>. This may be done using aspiration, the cutting mechanism formed by the needle as discussed above, or a combination. At step <NUM>, the samples may be transported to a collection chamber and may be labeled for later identification at step <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A method of using a tomosynthesis imaging system and at least one marker (<NUM>), the method comprising:
applying (<NUM>) a compression paddle (<NUM>) to an object (<NUM>) to be scanned;
performing (<NUM>) a tomosynthesis scan on at least a portion of the object (<NUM>);
reconstructing (<NUM>) at least a portion of the tomosynthesis scan of the object on a display screen (<NUM>), wherein an image of the at least one marker (<NUM>), which has been reprojected or transformed and superimposed on the at least a portion of the reconstruction, is visible;
determining (<NUM>) a location of a lesion (<NUM>) based upon the image of the at least one marker (<NUM>);
correlating (<NUM>) the location of the lesion (<NUM>) in the reconstruction with the at least one marker (<NUM>); and
proposing (<NUM>) a needle entry point (<NUM>) of a biopsy tool (<NUM>) using the correlation of the location of the lesion (<NUM>) with the at least one marker (<NUM>).