Initial clinical evaluation of observer performance using a tablet computer with a 4K high-resolution display for detection of breast cancer by digital mammography

Abstract

Purpose: To compare observer performance using medical-purpose 5-megapixel liquid crystal display monitors (5-MP LCDs) and a tablet PC with a 4K high-resolution display for detection of breast cancer by digital mammography. Materials and methods: Mammograms from 40 patients with primary breast cancer (18 mass, 16 microcalcifications, 3 artificial distortions, and 3 focal asymmetries) and 60 control patients were consecutively collected. Four experienced radiologists assessed 100 mammograms to rate using the BI-RADS lexicon. The BI-RADS assessments were subjected to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Also, the observers assessed the image quality in terms of brightness, contrast, sharpness, and noise using 5-step Likert scale. Results: The average under the curve (AUC) values for use of the 5-MP LCDs and 4K monitors were 0.921 and 0.936; the difference between them was small and not significant. In terms of image quality, the 4K was rated better for brightness, contrast, and sharpness. Conclusion:Observer performance for detecting breast cancer on a 4K tablet PC with a high-resolution display is similar to that using a 5-MP LCD. This appears adequate for displaying mammograms of diagnostic quality and could be useful for patient consultations, clinical demonstrations, or educational and teaching purposes.