Measuring Electrical Properties of Breast Tissues

A new approach to imaging that uses low-power microwaves to scan the breast has been developed. Since the imaging system uses low power, there is no risk of tissue heating. The imaging system places the sensors in contact with the breast and does not require compression. The research team at the University of Calgary has previously developed microwave imaging systems that have been tested on volunteers and patients. This included repeated scanning of a group of volunteers to evaluate the consistency of the approach. The information collected from experiences scanning volunteers and patients have been reviewed and translated into a next-generation imaging system design. Aspects of this system have been further improved by Wave View Imaging, which is a company formed by members of the University's research team.

The proposed study involves collecting electrical property measurements of breast tissues and comparing these measurements to clinical information. The investigators also aim to compare regions of interest in the microwave scans with regions of interest in the mammograms. This includes regions dominated by fibroglandular tissues, as well as regions of interest that correspond to anomalies identified in the mammograms

The plan is to scan both breasts of up to 200 volunteers. Each volunteer will participate in a single scanning session. Breast tissue composition (VOLPARA score) will be compared with the microwave properties and registration of mammograms with microwave images will be performed for a more detailed comparison.

Inclusion criteria

• Must have had a previous mammogram in the last 2 years

Exclusion criteria

• Participants currently undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment.
• Participants with breast implants.
• Participants who are breast or breastfeeding.
• Participants with active breast infections.
• Participants with nipple piercings (unless they can be removed prior to scanning).
• Participants with an implanted electronic device.
• Participants with physical limitations that prevent them from placing their breasts in the scanner.