In vivo test-driven upgrade of a time domain multi-wavelength optical mammograph

Abstract

A recent upgrade of the time domain multi-wavelength optical mammograph developed by Politecnico di Milano achieved good performance in laboratory tests [ Biomed. Opt. Express 9 , 755 ( 2018 ). 10.1364/BOE.9.000755 ]. However, it proved unsatisfactory when in vivo measurements were finally performed. That led to a further upgrade, including the replacement of the time-to-digital converter with a new model, and the related set-up changes. The new instrument version offers improved laboratory performance (as assessed through established protocols: BIP and MEDPHOT) and good in vivo performance (extension of the scanned breast area, repeatability, consistency of estimated tissue composition with physiology). Besides introducing the new set-up and detailing its laboratory and in vivo performance, we highlight the importance of systematic in vivo testing before entering clinical trials.