Radiology, Vol 194, 383-387, Copyright © 1995 by Radiological Society of North America
Pressures in a simulated breast subjected to compression forces comparable to those of mammography. Work in Progress [published erratum appears in Radiology 1995 Jun;195(3):877]
DG Russell and JT Ziewacz
Department of Radiology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, John Dempsey Hospital, Farmington 06032.
PURPOSE: To determine the magnitude and distribution of pressures in breast
models subjected to mammographic compression forces. MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A vinyl-wrapped, unleavened-bread-dough breast model was compressed.
Pressures in the dough models were measured with a strain gauge connected
to a water-filled sensor. RESULTS: Under broad compression, pressures were
uniform (range, 2.76-22.06 kPa [0.4-3.2 psi]). Spot compression increased
pressures by as much as 60%. Pressures dropped sharply outside of paddle
margins. No pressure differentials were found near small, deep simulated
masses. The pressure of large masses increased by 50% when subjected to
full compression force. Vigorous digital palpation resulted in a pressure
of more than 41.40 kPa (6 psi). CONCLUSION: General pressures were mild and
uniform. Internal pressures varied inversely with the area to which force
was applied. Pressure dissemination was restricted by the cohesive binder
and allowed zones of greater pressure to form directly under the applied
force. The surrounding matrix disseminated pressure and protected small
masses; large masses, bearing the force of the paddle, were exposed to
greater pressure. Digital palpation administered high pressures.
