Optimizing digital mammographie image quality via Taguchi-based Grey analysis: An ACR accreditation phantom study

This study demonstrates the effective mammographic phantom image optimization of several quality requirements via a digital X-ray device and Taguchi-based Grey relational analysis. The modified algorithm adopted herein was successfully applied to optimize the X-ray settings and of grading the integrated requirements of mammographic imaging quality. The quality requirements as optimized in this study contained the high quality of a mammographic image and the tolerable radiation dose. The optimal setting of the X-ray device for the mammographic imaging system was the target nuclide Rh, 31 kVp, 80 mAs and 19×23 cm
²
FOV. The judged grade of the exposed mammographic image optimized from 66.67 to 71.67 fulfilling the minimum criterion (70.00) set by the DOH, Taiwan. The accompanying Averaged Gland Dose (AGD) to exposed phantom, 0.227 cGy. The evaluation of Grey relational grade quantified the overall performance of several quality requirements of a mammographic image. Taguchi based Grey methods are highly promising for use in designing imaging standards in the future.