Reconstruction for four-dimensional dynamic contrast-enhanced dedicated breast computed tomography (4D DCE-BCT)

Breast cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Breast CT is a new medical imaging technique that uses X rays to create detailed 3D images of the breast, without the discomfort of traditional compression used in mammography. In this thesis, we further develop breast CT to enable perfusion imaging. This information is believed to be clinically useful for monitoring treatment response and supporting more personalized breast cancer care. The thesis focuses on the technical challenges of this approach, including accurately measuring the amount of iodine-based contrast agent in the breast over time, correcting image distortions caused by patient motion, and reducing image noise when using low radiation doses.