Development and Evaluation of a Portable Microwave Breast Imaging System: Enhanced Physics Modeling

Access to breast cancer screening is limited in rural populations and developing countries, resulting in increased mortality rates for women. Microwave based breast cancer detection is a safer and less costly approach to early breast cancer detection. Building on our experience in experimental microwave radar-based breast imaging research we are developing and testing a portable microwave breast cancer detection device suitable for use in these communities. The system will incorporate an array of antennas, and a source of microwave radiation to create a tomographic data set. The compact battery-powered system will be operated by the patient, using an easy-to-understand graphical user interface. Advanced image reconstruction and machine learning will provide an immediate response as to the presence of a breast abnormality. We have shown that such approaches can achieve similar sensitivity and specificity to x-ray mammography. Data from both breasts will be compared to ensure reliable results for all breast sizes and densities and will be validated using an array of 3D printed breast phantoms derived from MRI data. A robust breast microwave imaging system will provide a safe, comfortable, and affordable breast cancer screening, increasing access and reducing mortality for women in disadvantaged communities.

Faculty Supervisor:

Stephen Pistorius

Student:

Partner:

National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Other; Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Artificial Intelligence

University:

University of Manitoba

Program: