Clinical Research Directory

Advanced Ultrasound Signal Processing of Suspicious Breast Images

This study aims to investigate recent developments in ultrasound signal processing to determine if these new techniques can enhance the visibility of important features of interest in breast ultrasound images. Ultrasound signals obtained from both standard ultrasound imaging and ultrasound imaging combined with light (also known as photoacoustic imaging) will be investigated.

Prospective Observational Study for Breast Microcalcifications' Classification With Artificial Intelligence Techniques

Breast microcalcifications are a common mammographic finding. Microcalcifications are considered suspicious signs of breast cancer and a breast biopsy is required, however, cancer is diagnosed in only a few patients. Reducing unnecessary biopsies and rapid characterization of breast microcalcifications are unmet clinical needs. This study intends to implement a classification method for breast microcalcifications (as begnin or malign) with Artificial Intelligence techniques on mammographic images, evaluating the diagnostic performance (accuracy) of this approach. Another aim is the development of a diagnostic tool able to determining in-situ the biomolecular characteristics of microcalcifications. Raman spectroscopy (RS) is a highly specific method from the biomolecular point of view and it is able to explore molecular composition of a given sample through its direct irradiation (through laser light) and the simultaneous acquisition of emission signals. RS information could be combined togheter with imaging features to implement an AI model for the combined classification of breast microcalcifications

Imaging Quality and Potential Clinical Relevance of Phase Contrast Mammography In-vivo: a Single-center, Prospective Study

Conventional mammography, breast sonography and breast MRI have specific weaknesses. In particular, mammography has a low sensitivity for the detection of mammary carcinoma in patients with a dense breast. Phase contrast mammography could help to overcome some of these limitations. Observational study.