Emerging Clinical Applications for Cone Beam Breast CT: Changing the Breast Imaging Paradigm

Abstract

Purpose of Review Since its approval by the Unites States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015, cone-beam breast computed tomography (CBBCT) has gained acceptance among radiologists for breast cancer imaging. This review aims to highlight the advancements and benefits of CBBCT in the diagnostic workup of breast disease. It showcases how CBBCT, including both non-contrast (NC-CBBCT) and contrast-enhanced (CE-CBBCT) protocols, complements and often surpasses the performance of more traditional breast imaging modalities such as mammography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Recent Findings Studies in clinical settings have shown CBBCT’s efficacy in detecting and characterizing breast lesions of differing morphologies, including non-mass enhancement and calcifications—tasks that previously required the use of multiple modalities. In addition, CBBCT significantly enhances patient comfort and efficiency, offering quick acquisition times without the discomfort of breast compression. The technology can be utilized for guiding biopsies, planning surgical interventions, and assessing breast density and tumor characteristics, evidence supporting its integration into clinical practice. Summary CBBCT holds the potential to shift the imaging paradigm in breast cancer care, indicating a promising future for the modality in terms of enhancing diagnostic accuracy, improving patient experience, and influencing treatment outcomes.