Unique new detector for fast, low dose examinations

AMULET Innovality employs a direct-conversion flat panel detector made of Amorphous Selenium (a-Se) which exhibits excellent conversion efficiency in the mammographic X-ray spectrum. The new HCP (Hexagonal Close Pattern) detector efficiently collects electrical signal converted from X-rays to realize both high resolution and low noise. This unique design makes it possible to realize a higher DQE (Detective Quantum Efficiency) than with the square pixel array of conventional TFT panels. With the information collected by the HCP detector, AMULET Innovality creates high definition images with a pixel size of 50 μm; the finest available with a direct-conversion detector.

This low-noise and high-speed switching technology allows tomosynthesis exposures with a low X-ray dosage and short acquisition time to be performed. Fast image display is also possible, realizing a smooth mammography aworkflow from exposure to image display.

Conventional square pixel

AMULET Innovality hexagonal pixel

Tomosynthesis: making it possible to observe the internal structure of the breast

In breast tomosynthesis, the X-ray tube moves through an arc while acquiring a series of low-dose x-ray images. The images taken from different angles are reconstructed into a range of Tomosynthesis slices where the structure of interest is always in focus.

The reconstructed tomographic images make it easier to identify lesions which might be difficult to visualize in routine mammography because of the presence of overlapping breast structures.

The Tomosynthesis function on AMULET Innovality is suitable for a wide range of uses, offering two modes to cater for various clinical scenarios. Standard (ST) mode combines rapid exposure timing and efficient workflow with a low X-ray dose while High Resolution (HR) mode makes it possible to produce images with an even higher level of detail, allowing the region of interest to be brought into clearer focus.

Two modes suitable for a range of clinical purposes

ST (Standard) mode

Acquisition angle: ±7.5°
Pixel size: 150/100 μm

The smaller angular range and fast image acquisition allow Tomosynthesis scans to be quickly performed with a relatively low x-ray dose.

HR (High Resolution) mode

Acquisition angle: ±20°
Pixel size: 100/50 μm

With a larger acquisition angle the depth resolution is improved. This allows the region of interest to be defined more clearly and brought into clearer focus.

Intelligent AEC optimizes the X-ray dose for each breast type

Intelligent AEC has advantages in defining the optimal dose for an examination compared to conventional AEC systems where the sensor position is fixed.

Through the analysis of information obtained from low-dose preshot images, Intelligent AEC makes it possible to consider the mammary gland density (breast type) when defining the x-ray energy and level of dose required.

Able to be used even in the presence of implants; intelligent AEC enables more accurate calculation of exposure parameters than is possible with conventional AEC systems. By allowing the use of automatic exposure for the implanted breast, Intelligent AEC can further enhance examination workflow.

Conventional AEC

Requires manual adjustment of the settings based on the assumed location of mammary gland

intelligent AEC

Automatically selects the region for exposure in the pre-shot image

Dedicated mammography AWS (Acquisition Workstation)

Optimal examination workflow

• Integrated X-ray controller allows setting and confirmation of exposure conditions on a single screen.
• Examination screen can be split and switched between 1, 2, or 4 image display.
• Individual images can be immediately output to a PACS, viewer or printer during an examination.
• Density and contrast can be easily adjusted while viewing images.
• Alignment of left and right images can be adjusted both automatically and manually.

AWS

High definition second monitor

High definition second monitor (3M/5M: Optional)

• A second, high resolution monitor can be added to the AWS making it possible to display previous images recalled from a PACS to ensure the mammographer has access to previous images at all times.
• For Tomosynthesis, reconstructed images can be displayed and subjected to image QC.

Digital Mammography Systems - Recommended System Solutions